WAGE talks between platinum producer Lonmin and the National Union of Mineworkers are nearing an agreement after both parties moved their wage figures yesterday.

NUM, which initially demanded a 25percent wage hike, then 20percent, dropped its demand to 14percent yesterday.

The mining company increased its 6,5percent offer to 8percent for lower category workers and 7percent for higher category employees.

NUM chief negotiator Eric Gcilitshana said negotiations were positive but there was still room for improvement on the company's side.

"There was progress at today's meeting but not necessarily at a satisfactory pace in terms of the offers made but we will continue to negotiate," Gcilitshana said.

Earlier this week the parties agreed on providing employees with two days study leave as well as seven months paid maternity.

According to the union, they further agreed "in principle" on the phasing out of subcontractors and referred the matter to a task team to finalise the timelines.

Gcilitshana added that his union was determined to secure the highest settlement possible.