More richly endowed than either Russia or Australia, with an estimated $2.5 trillion (the equivalent of R18 trillion) worth of metals and minerals in the ground at today’s prices, South Africa has by far the most well endowed mineral wealth of any country in the world (American Citibank Group, Metals and Mining Strategy, April 2010). Containing 52 commodities in the ground and home to the world’s largest reserves of platinum group metals (almost 90%), manganese (80%), chrome (73%), vanadium (45%) and gold (41%), and a major reserve holder of vermiculite, zirconium minerals, titanium minerals, coal and iron ore, South Africa’s mineral potential is second to none (Chamber of Mines, 20092010).

South Africa is at a critical turning point. Decisions concerning the nationalization of the mineral industry, security of tenure, underdeveloped transport and energy infrastructure, skills shortages, safety issues and affirmative action policies to boost black ownership in the mining industry challenge the country’s ability to remain at the forefront of the international mining industry. South Africa needs a collaborative effort from government, industry and labor to improve its competitive edge on the global mining arena and enhance its image as a preferred investment destination.