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TAZ
from SAVIOUS KWINIKA in Johannesburg, South Africa
CAJ News Agency
South Africa Bureau
17/09/2025
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – AFRICA’S platinum mining industry is set for a challenging year in 2025, with production forecast to contract by 6.4% to 4,771.2koz, down from 5,096.2koz in 2024, according to research by GlobalData.
The downturn is attributed mainly to power shortages, rising costs, and extreme weather conditions in South Africa, which accounts for more than 80% of the world’s platinum supply.
Despite the near-term setback, GlobalData’s Africa Mining Review – 2025 projects a gradual recovery, with platinum output across the continent expected to grow at a compound annual rate of 1.4% through 2030, reaching 5,121koz.
South Africa remains the sector’s backbone due to its vast reserves and established mining infrastructure.
However, the country continues to wrestle with regulatory uncertainty, operational inefficiencies, illegal mining, and limited exploration activity.
Analysts note that investments in mechanization, energy reliability, and sustainability initiatives will be critical to restoring long-term stability.
Major projects such as the \$1 billion Waterberg development, expected to deliver 222koz annually from 2029, could provide much-needed momentum.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe is emerging as a key growth hub, leveraging the world’s second-largest platinum group metal reserves.
The country is attracting significant investment from players including Impala Platinum and Anglo American Platinum.
GlobalData forecasts Zimbabwe’s platinum output to expand at a CAGR of 2.9%, reaching 616.2koz by 2030. Projects such as Mupani and Karo Platinum are set to collectively add 64koz in annual capacity.
“South Africa’s platinum sector is resilient but urgently needs infrastructure upgrades and greater investment in innovation,” said Gayathri Siripurapu, Senior Mining Analyst at GlobalData. “At the same time, Zimbabwe’s supportive policies and geological advantage are creating opportunities to diversify Africa’s platinum supply chain.”
– CAJ News