South African mining is facing significant technical, political and economic challenges. Nevertheless, the extensive mineral deposits and the innovative strength of the companies offer opportunities for sustainable growth and investment.
Image courtesy of Harmony Gold Mining Company.
The oil industry is “running to stay in place” because the accelerated decline rates in existing producing fields require significant investment to compensate for production losses – almost 90% of recent upstream investment is therefore not spent on expansion, but solely on maintaining production. This trend is particularly evident in the aging process of US shale oil production, whose steeper declines rates require faster exploration and development of new reserves just to maintain production levels. In this context, the International Energy Agency (IEA) warns that even moderate production growth is only possible with permanently high investments, while a significant decline in spending would inevitably lead to falling production.
The growing demand for critical minerals to support renewable energy and modern technologies increasingly intersects with mining projects on Indigenous-claimed lands. This article examines the associated opportunities and risks, highlighting the role of legal frameworks, potential conflicts, and partnership models in shaping resource development.
The 50% copper import tariff announced by the U.S. president in July 2025 is aimed at boosting domestic industry but risks higher costs and retaliatory mesaures. While investments in local projects could reduce dependence on imports, the longer-term effects will depend on market reactions and global dynamics. Major projects in Arizona will increase copper production, but overall import dependence may rise given the growing demand driven by AI infrastructure.
Fabian Erismann of Earth Resource Investments recently visited a promising copper exploration project in northern Kazakhstan. The country is presenting new opportunities for significant copper-gold discoveries, which could experience swift development thanks to its abundant mineral resources and excellent infrastructure. (Only available in German).
Over the past 20 years, oil prices and related stocks have experienced significant volatility, with several major downturns. Despite the push for renewable energy, the energy sector remains one of the most attractively valued equity sectors.
Community acceptance is key to the success of a project developer.
The copper price broke through US dollars 5.00 per lb (US dollars 11,000 per tonne) in May 2024.
