The main issue of the Third Platinum Congress was price for platinum metals reduction in the world market. The congress took place in Johannesburg, South Africa. Russian delegation consisted of the representatives of "Norilsk Nickel" and "Almazyuvelirexport" companies. The participants of the Congress discussed pressing questions of precious metals market development, including Russia's strategy that was a major factor in the price volatility on international spot markets.

According to the analytical review for 2002 of transnational company Johnson Matthey, demand for platinum metals will decrease by 28% and will amount 4,88 mln ounces a year. In the nearest 6 months prices of palladium will vary from $250 to $330 per ounce, platinum prices will amount $550-650 per ounce. In 2003 South Africa can become the main palladium supplier to the world market having pressed Russian manufacturers.