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Johannesburg - A meeting on the gold sector wage dispute was held with the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration, the CCMA said on Wednesday.
"An improved wage offer was tabled by the Chamber of Mines," the CCMA said.
"In terms of the LRA [Labour Relations Act], the CCMA has 30 days to attempt to resolve a dispute referred through conciliation."
It said once the period had expired unions who referred the dispute could embark on a protected strike, after giving employers 48 hours notice.
"Whilst this period is to expire on the 24 August 2013, the CCMA draws attention to the provision that allows for extension of the 30-day period by consent of all parties," it said.
"The CCMA commits itself to assisting parties to find a negotiated solution during and even after the thirty day period."
The process would continue on August 20 and 21.
Unions, including the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) reportedly rejected a wage increase offer of half a percentage point to 5.5%, presented to them by the Chamber of Mines on behalf of the gold producers.
NUM was reportedly calling for a 61% increase in entry-level salaries, while the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union demanded R12 500 per month.
