South African mining executives are optimistic about the future of the industry but are concerned about how to maintain its growth, given key challenges such as skills development and HIV/Aids. These are the findings of the 2006 Deloitte Mining and Metals Executive and Analysts Survey.

Despite being superseded by the manufacturing and services sectors in terms of contribution to the country’s GDP, South Africa’s mainstream mining industry still accounts for more than 30% of the market capitalisation on the JSE, and is characterised by its high degree of technical expertise and the facility with which it is able to mobilise capital for new ventures.

A number of developments in South Africa’s mining industry will enhance the suitability of the sector as an attractive investment target. That is according to MG Diliza, chief executive of the Chamber of Mines, who was speaking last week at the Mining Investment Conference in London. “South Africa is the world’s richest and most diverse repository of mineral commodities."