Mining in South Africa: a mature industry?

The paper examines the mining industry of South Africa from 1994 to the present, by reference to the legislative reforms and also the continuing contribution of mining to the economy of South Africa; with a focus on the case of gold. This is all affected by the push for ‘sustainable development’ (1987). In the past mining companies provided housing, clinics, schools, social amenities, and even infrastructure in mine towns, over and above the tax burden. In terms of the Mineral and Petroleum Development Act (2002) and related Mining Charter and Scorecard, it does not appear that the government expects any less in future. The influence of South Africa’s mineral endowment has diminished due mainly to expansion in the secondary and especially tertiary sectors of the economy. Social and environmental developments in mining are still emerging.