South Africa’s Cabinet approves mineral resources development bill for public comment

South Africa’s Cabinet has approved the Mineral Resources Development Bill of 2025 for public comment. Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni announced the bill during a post-Cabinet briefing, saying it will streamline regulatory processes, improve investor confidence, and ensure fair distribution of mining benefits.

The bill proposes a “one-stop shop” to simplify licensing, clear guidelines to secure mining rights, requirements for local processing of minerals, and measures to support local communities

South Africa’s mining industry, historically a backbone of the economy, has experienced a decline in recent years. The sector contributed approximately 6.3% to the country’s GDP in 2023, down from previous decades. Exploration investment has also plummeted, falling from R6.2 billion ($333 million) in 2008 to just R1.2 billion ($65 million) in 2023, reflecting growing investor concerns

President Cyril Ramaphosa said the government is working to modernise mining rights and clear application backlogs. Separate ministries for Mineral and Petroleum Resources and Electricity and Energy were established in 2024 to support the plan.

According to Mining.com, the Minerals Council South Africa supports the bill, noting the need for a better regulatory environment. Some experts warn that successful reforms depend on implementation and coordination between departments.

The South African government has invited public comments on the bill.

The post South Africa’s Cabinet approves mineral resources development bill for public comment first appeared on Future Media News.

The post South Africa’s Cabinet approves mineral resources development bill for public comment appeared first on Future Media News.