The South African government’s easing of mining regulations and privatisation of infrastructure presents significant opportunities for Indian businesses, according to Nitin Agrawal, Group Chairman of Oza Holdings, which has interests in mining and manufacturing.

Agrawal addressed 36 business leaders from the NPO Young Indians, part of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), during a delegation visit to South Africa under the G20 Young Entrepreneurs Alliance. Indian Consul General in Johannesburg, Mahesh Kumar, facilitated interactions with local business leaders, government officials, and business school representatives.

Highlighting South Africa’s well-established mineral reserves and developed infrastructure, Agrawal said Indian firms can benefit from easier access to mining licences and improved regulatory frameworks. He noted the government’s focus on upgrading rail and port operations, which is expected to enhance mining competitiveness in 2026.

The privatisation programme and push for local beneficiation of minerals offer further prospects for Indian businesses, particularly in value-added products, ferro alloy production, mining machinery, and ancillary sectors. Agrawal emphasised that Indian companies’ agility positions them to thrive in challenging markets, citing successes in pharma, IT, mining, and secondary steel industries.

Despite challenges such as power shortages and limited water resources, Indian expertise in skills transfer and manufacturing can strengthen South Africa’s workforce and infrastructure. Initiatives like diamond cutting and polishing units in industrial development zones demonstrate the potential for collaboration in beneficiation, employment generation, and local manufacturing.