Conclusion South Africa has vast mineral resources – estimated to be worth $2.50-trillion – but unless the country manages to attract investment in exploration and mining, its minerals are going to stay in the ground. Providing certainty of policy and a predictable regulatory environment could speed up investment, which will drive up inclusive economic growth and much-needed employment creation. Improving the global competitiveness of South Africa would change the country’s economic growth trajectory. Modernising the economy, including the mining sector, will be key to achieving this goal and will require a new approach to technology and innovation. Partnering with the private sector will help the country be more competitive, and will unlock greater privatesector investment required in core infrastructure such as railways, harbours and electricity. To encourage private-sector participation, the country must continue to implement long-awaited structural reforms. In an environment often characterised by talk, rather than action, it is time for the country to roll up its sleeves and get things moving to create an investment framework that is conducive for investors to commit to South Africa. At the same time, the mining industry must seek buy-in from all stakeholders and be more vocal about the consequences of a scenario in which South Africa fails to encourage more resources investment.
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