TORONTO (miningweekly.com) – Johannesburg-based AngloGold Ashanti sees gold production from its Americas unit rising to 1,07-million ounces by 2012, according to a presentation posted on the group's website.

In 2008, AngloGold produced 819 000 oz of gold from operations in the US, Brazil and Argentina, and the firm expects this figure will increase to 840 000 oz this year, and 960 000 oz in 2010.

The company forecasts that it could produce about 850 000 oz/y from its La Colosa gold project, in Colombia, which is scheduled for completion in 2015, according to the presentation.

AngloGold is also studying or developing projects in Argentina, Brazil and the US, in addition to its current operations.

The firm plans to develop a new strategy for the Americas, "considering merger and acquisition opportunities", it said.

In 2008, the region accounted for 16% of AngloGold Ashanti's total production, and the firm plans to present a new growth strategy for North and South America in March.

Shares in the group rose 8,8% on Tuesday, to R319,90 apiece by 19:00 in Johannesburg.

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