afrol News, 10 January - South Africa's annual gold production has dropped by 12.7% in November, published official statistics showed. The fall is the biggest margin in seven months.

Statistics South Africa data also showed a total decline [64%] of minerals production as compared to the same period in 2006.

As the world's biggest gold producer, South Africa's decline in production counts a lot.

Over the years, gold production has been on decline in South Africa. While high-grade mines run out of ore, producing firms have been forced to embark on high-cost and risky underground operations.

Official data also showed a 5.4% decline of non-gold minerals in the country in November.

In October, total mineral sales recorded a loss of 3.6% in South Africa. Mineral production has significantly contributed to South African economy.