Tharisa PLC (LON:THR) said it will suspend mining at its South African chrome and platinum operations following the completion of the night shift on 25 March, following an order from President Cyril Ramaphosa that shuts down the mining industry for three weeks.
A care and maintenance regime will begin the following day.
Tharisa said that it fully supports the government's initiatives in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic and will implement all measures as instructed by the government.
Existing chrome ore shipments will continue as long as permissible. PGM concentrates produced will be delivered prior to shut down.
Security will remain on site 24 hours a day as permitted under the lock down conditions.
Tharisa is planning to commence production with effect of the morning shift on Friday, 17 April 2020.