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coal mining sector south africa

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2023

Alex Conradie | South Africa | 25 April 2023

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2020

Alex Conradie | South Africa | 29 October 2020

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2019

Alex Conradie | South Africa | 02 May 2019

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2017

Alex Conradie | South Africa | 07 June 2017

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2015

Alex Conradie | South Africa | 25 November 2015

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2014

Amanda van der Westhuizen | South Africa | 14 February 2014

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Report Coverage

This report on the coal industry in South Africa includes comprehensive information on the size and state of the sector including production, price and trade statistics, as well as information on the major players, developments and corporate actions. There are profiles of 14 notable coal mining companies including Seriti Resources, Thungela Operations, Exxaro Resources, Sasol Mining, ARM Coal, Glencore and Canyon Coal. There are profiles of 10 coal testing laboratories including Mintek, the South African Bureau of Standards and Bureau Veritas Testing and Inspections South Africa.

Introduction

• Although South African coal production volumes have been decreasing in the past decade, sales have increased, largely due to rising prices. \r\n
• The country was ranked the seventh-largest coal producer and was the fifth-largest exporter in terms of volume in 2021. \r\n
• More than 90,000 people were employed by the coal mining industry in 2022. \r\n
• Low economic growth in South Africa, growing international opposition to coal mining and coal-fired power generation, Transnet’s underperformance on the coal export line that limits producers’ ability to increase exports, and Eskom’s decommissioning of power stations are some of the challenges faced by the industry.

Strengths

• About 86% of the country’s electricity is generated using coal, thereby guaranteeing a market for thermal coal.
• Large coal export terminal at Richards Bay with the capacity to export 91 million tonnes per year.
• Large coal mining companies are well- established in South Africa.
• Significant coal reserves guarantee mining operations for about 40 years at present production levels.
• South Africa was the world’s seventh-largest producer of coal in 2021.
• South Africa’s geographical position enables it to supply coal to European and Asian markets.
• The country was the fifth-largest exporter of coal in 2021.

Weaknesses

• A few large companies control most of the coal reserves, Richards Bay Coal Terminal allocations, and supply to Eskom.
• Shortage of skills in certain disciplines.

Opportunities

• Some major companies are exiting coal mining or selling mines, creating opportunities for smaller companies to enter the industry.

Threats

• Competition from other energy sources.
• Eskom’s decommissioning of power stations.
• Growing international opposition to coal mining and coal-fired power generation, due to environmental concerns.
• Low economic growth in South Africa.
• Transnet’s underperformance on the coal export line limits producers’ ability to increase exports.

Outlook

• Climate change issues are expected to have a significant impact on the global coal mining industry in the future. \r\n
• Many countries have introduced measures to reduce the role of coal in their energy mix and several European countries plan to phase out the use of coal over the medium term. \r\n
• Although these measures will reduce the use of coal in several developed countries, this will be more than offset by increased coal consumption in emerging economies.\r\n
• Global coal consumption is expected to peak in 2024 before decreasing due to a shift towards cleaner energy. \r\n
• Over the medium term, coal production is forecast to slow faster than demand, due to underinvestment in new production capacity. \r\n
• As Eskom plans to mothball old power stations, its coal usage will decline progressively over the next three decades. \r\n
• South African coal mining companies expect export demand to remain strong for at least the next 20 years. \r\n
• In 2023, Europe is expected to continue to import large volumes of South African coal.

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa
The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2023

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R 9 500.00(ZAR) estimated $538.72 (USD)*

Industry Landscape

R 6 650.00(ZAR) estimated $ 377.10 (USD)*

Historical Reports

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2020-10-29

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2019-05-02

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2017-06-07

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2015-11-25

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2014-02-14

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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Table of Contents

[ Close ]
PAGE
1. INTRODUCTION 1
2. DESCRIPTION OF THE INDUSTRY 1
2.1. Industry Value Chain 2
2.2. Geographic Position 5
2.3. Size of the Industry 7
3. LOCAL 7
3.1. State of the Industry 7
3.2. Key Trends 9
3.3. Key Issues 9
3.4. Notable Players 9
3.5. Trade 17
3.6. Corporate Actions 19
3.7. Regulations 21
3.8. Enterprise Development and Social Economic Development 22
4. AFRICA 24
5. INTERNATIONAL 26
6. INFLUENCING FACTORS 30
6.1. Economic Environment 30
6.2. Environmental Issues 31
6.3. Rail and Port Issues 35
6.4. Unforeseen Events 37
6.5. Mine Safety 37
6.6. Input Costs 37
6.7. Labour 38
6.8. Technology, R&D and Innovation 40
7. COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT 41
7.1. Competition 41
7.2. Ownership Structure of the Industry 42
7.3. Barriers to Entry 43
8. SWOT ANALYSIS 44
9. OUTLOOK 45
10. INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS 46
11. REFERENCES 46
11.1. Publications 46
11.2. Websites 47
APPENDICES 48
Appendix 1 – Mining of Coal and Lignite 48
Appendix 2 – Coal Testing Laboratories 55
COMPANY PROFILES - Mining of Coal and Lignite 56
ARM Coal (Pty) Ltd 56
Canyon Coal (Pty) Ltd 59
Exxaro Resources Ltd 62
Glencore PLC 69
Kangra Coal (Pty) Ltd 77
MC Mining Ltd 79
Optimum Coal Mine (Pty) Ltd 83
Petmin (Pty) Ltd 85
Salungano Group Ltd 87
Sasol Mining Holdings (Pty) Ltd 91
Seriti Resources Holdings (Pty) Ltd 93
Thungela Operations (Pty) Ltd 96
Universal Coal and Energy Holdings South Africa (Pty) Ltd 99
Zululand Anthracite Colliery (Pty) Ltd 102
COMPANY PROFILES - Coal Testing Laboratories 104
Bureau Veritas Testing and Inspections South Africa (Pty) Ltd 104
Cotecna South Africa (Pty) Ltd 106
Council for Mineral Technology 108
Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd 111
Glencore Operations South Africa (Pty) Ltd 115
Intertek Testing Services (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd 119
Mitra S K South Africa (Pty) Ltd 121
Noko Analytical Services CC 123
SGS South Africa (Pty) Ltd 125
South African Bureau of Standards 129

Report Coverage

This report focuses on the South African coal mining sector and coal testing laboratories, and includes comprehensive information on the state and size of the sector, production and trade statistics and notable developments. There are profiles of 47 companies including the six major local coal producers, Anglo, Exxaro Resources, Glencore, Sasol, Seriti Resources and South32. Other profiles include Wescoal and Kuyasa Mining and companies involved in testing such as Noko Analytical Services and Intertek.

Introduction

In 2019, the South African coal mining sector produced 254.3 million tons (Mt) of coal, according to the BP Statistical Review of World Energy, while data obtained from the International Trade Centre’s\r\nTrade Map shows coal exports amounted to 78.6Mt, which earned US$4.8bn. According to the Minerals Council South Africa, the combined value of local sales and exports of coal reached R139.3bn, while 92,230 people were employed by the sector in 2019. The impact of the coronavirus pandemic on coal supply and demand, low economic growth in export markets, and growing international opposition to coal mining and coal-fired power generation because of environmental concerns, are some of the challenges faced by the coal mining sector, and consequently by coal testing laboratories.

Strengths

• About 77% of the country’s electricity is generated using coal, thereby guaranteeing a market for thermal coal.
• Large coal export terminal at Richards Bay with the capacity to export 91Mt per year.
• Large coal mining companies are well- established in South Africa.
• Significant coal reserves guarantee mining operations for about 39 years at present production levels.
• South Africa was the world’s seventh-largest producer of coal in 2019.
• South Africa’s strategic location between the Atlantic and Pacific markets is favourable for exports to either market.
• The country was the fifth-largest exporter of coal in 2019.

Weaknesses

• A few large companies control most of the coal resources, Richards Bay Coal Terminal allocations, and supply to Eskom.
• Capacity constraints on the coal export line limit producers’ ability to increase exports.
• Shortage of skills in certain disciplines.

Opportunities

• The fact that some major companies are exiting coal mining is creating opportunities for junior and medium-sized companies to enter the sector.

Threats

• Competition from other energy sources.
• Growing international opposition to coal mining and coal-fired power generation, due to environmental concerns.
• India reducing imports by increasing domestic output.
• Low economic growth in export markets.
• Rapidly increasing production costs.
• The impact of the coronavirus pandemic on coal supply and demand.

Outlook

Australia’s Department of Industry, Innovation and Science expects world coal demand to decrease in 2020 due to a drop in economic activity, and competition from liquefied natural gas. Trade in thermal coal is forecast to decrease by 8.5% to 1,046 million tons (Mt) in 2020 before increasing to 1,097Mt in 2022 as economic activity picks up. Thermal coal prices are expected to decrease in 2020 due to an oversupply situation, but are forecast to increase in 2021 and 2022 (although not to 2019 levels) as demand recovers. Over the longer term, a shift from imports to domestic production by the largest importers, India and China, and reduced thermal coal usage by countries moving away from coal-fired electricity generation are expected to limit price increases. However, thermal coal imports by countries in South Asia (Pakistan and Bangladesh) and Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand) are on an upward trend and are forecast to increase from 153Mt in 2019 to 178Mt in 2022. \r\n\r\nThe Australian Department of Industry, Innovation and Science forecasts South Africa’s thermal coal exports will decrease to 65Mt in 2020, before growing to 70Mt in 2021 and 77Mt in 2022 as exporters increase exports to Asian countries other than India. Demand for coal in South Africa is expected to increase as economic activity recovers over the remainder of 2020 and into 2021. The International Energy Agency’s Clean Coal Centre believes coal-based electricity will continue to play an important role in South Africa for decades, especially if coal could be mined, transported and combusted more cleanly. XMP Consulting’s senior coal analyst, Xavier Prevost, believes local prices will rise over time, because domestic demand is greater than supply, supporting the sector’s growth. Others are also optimistic about the future of the coal mining sector: Mike Teke, CEO of Seriti Resources Holdings, said: “Coal still has a role to play and I still see coal as an attractive business for anyone who is cost competitive, reliable and who understands that best mining practices will win the game.

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa
The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2020

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R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

Industry Landscape

R 1 330.00(ZAR) estimated $ 75.42 (USD)*

Historical Reports

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2023-04-25

R 9 500.00(ZAR) estimated $538.72 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2019-05-02

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2017-06-07

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2015-11-25

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2014-02-14

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Table of Contents

[ Close ]
PAGE
1. INTRODUCTION 1
2. DESCRIPTION OF THE INDUSTRY 1
2.1. Industry Value Chain 2
2.2. Geographic Position 4
3. SIZE OF THE INDUSTRY 5
4. STATE OF THE INDUSTRY 7
4.1. Local 7
4.1.1. Trade 9
4.1.2. Corporate Actions 10
4.1.3. Regulations 12
4.1.4. Enterprise Development and Social Economic Development 15
4.2. Continental 16
4.3. International 16
5. INFLUENCING FACTORS 20
5.1. Coronavirus 20
5.2. Economic Environment 22
5.3. Environmental Concerns 22
5.4. Rising Input Costs 24
5.5. Technology, Research and Development (R&D) and Innovation 24
5.6. Inadequate Rail Infrastructure 25
5.7. Mine Safety 26
5.8. Labour 26
6. COMPETITION 29
6.1. Barriers to Entry 30
7. SWOT ANALYSIS 30
8. OUTLOOK 31
9. INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS 32
10. REFERENCES 32
10.1. Publications 32
10.2. Websites 33
APPENDIX 1 - SUMMARY OF NOTABLE PLAYERS 34
Mining of Coal and Lignite 34
Coal Testing Laboratories 43
COMPANY PROFILES - MINING OF COAL AND LIGNITE 46
AFRICAN EXPLORATION MINING AND FINANCE CORPORATION SOC LTD 46
ANGLO OPERATIONS (PTY) LTD 49
ANKER COAL AND MINERAL HOLDINGS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 52
ARM COAL (PTY) LTD 54
ARNOT OPCO (PTY) LTD 57
BLACK ROYALTY MINERALS (PTY) LTD 58
BLACK WATTLE COLLIERY (PTY) LTD 59
BUFFALO COAL CORPORATION 61
CANYON COAL (PTY) LTD 63
EXXARO RESOURCES LTD 65
GLENCORE PLC 71
IZIMBIWA COAL (PTY) LTD 79
KANGRA COAL (PTY) LTD 81
KUYASA MINING (PTY) LTD 83
LONDANI COAL (PTY) LTD 85
LURCO GROUP SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 86
MBUYELO COAL (PTY) LTD 88
MC MINING LTD 90
MMAKAU MINING (PTY) LTD 94
PETMIN (PTY) LTD 96
RESOURCE GENERATION LTD 98
SASOL LTD 101
SERITI RESOURCES HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD 107
SHIVA URANIUM (PTY) LTD 110
SOUTH32 LTD 113
UMCEBO MINING (PTY) LTD 117
UNICORN CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD 119
UNIVERSAL COAL AND ENERGY HOLDINGS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 123
WESCOAL HOLDINGS LTD 125
ZARBON COAL (PTY) LTD 129
COMPANY PROFILES - COAL TESTING LABORATORIES 131
ALS CHEMEX SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 131
BUREAU VERITAS TESTING AND INSPECTIONS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 133
CHEM-SCIENCE LABORATORIES (PTY) LTD 135
COTECNA SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 137
COUNCIL FOR MINERAL TECHNOLOGY 139
ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LTD 143
GLENCORE OPERATIONS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 147
INTERTEK TESTING SERVICES (SOUTH AFRICA) (PTY) LTD 151
MBE MINERALS (S A) (PTY) LTD 153
MITRA S K SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 155
NOKO ANALYTICAL SERVICES CC 157
SASOL LTD 159
SGS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 165
SIBONISIWE COAL LABORATORY SERVICES CC 168
SIZA COAL SERVICES (PTY) LTD 169
SOUTH AFRICAN BUREAU OF STANDARDS 172
UIS ANALYTICAL SERVICES (PTY) LTD 176
UMZAMOWONKE TRADING AND PROJECTS 25 CC 178

Report Coverage

This report covers the South African coal mining sector and coal testing laboratories. It provides comprehensive information on the size and state of the sector in 2017 and 2018, factors influencing the sector’s success, and industry developments and corporate actions to end-April 2019. There are 46 companies profiled including 19 testing facilities. Profiled companies include major coal miners such as South32, Glencore, Sasol and Exxaro Resources, and many smaller producers such as Kuyasa Mining and Londani Coal. Profiled coal testing laboratories include the South African Bureau of Standards, which is implementing a turnaround plan, the details of which are discussed in the report.

Introduction

During 2017 the South African coal mining sector produced 252.3 million tons (Mt) of coal, according to the BP Statistical Review of World Energy, while data obtained from the International Trade Centre’s Trade Map shows that coal exports in 2018 amounted to 81.1Mt, which earned US$6.2bn. The latest available figures from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) show that coal mining contributed R84.2bn, or 2.0%, to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) at current prices in 2017. According to the Minerals Council, the combined value of local sales and exports reached R139.4bn, while more than 86,900 people were employed by the sector in 2018. Stricter environmental policies as a result of climate change, the inadequate capacity of the export railway line, and rapidly rising input costs are some of the challenges faced by the coal mining sector.

Strengths

• About 82% of the country’s electricity is generated using coal, thereby guaranteeing a market for thermal coal.
• Large coal export terminal at Richards Bay with the capacity to export 91Mt per year.
• Large coal-producing companies are well-established in South Africa.
• Significant coal reserves guarantee mining operations for about 39 years at present production levels.
• South Africa is the world’s seventh-largest producer of coal.
• South Africa’s strategic location between the Atlantic and Pacific markets is favourable for exports to either market.
• The country is the sixth-largest exporter of coal.

Weaknesses

• An oligopoly controls the coal resources, Richards Bay Coal Terminal allocation, and supply to Eskom.
• Capacity constraints on the coal export line limit producers’ ability to increase exports.
• Inadequate protection for mineworkers in the past has led to a lawsuit by employees suffering from occupational diseases.
• Not enough capital is being spent on new projects.
• Shortage of skills in certain disciplines.
• South African coal not suitable for foreign power plants using high efficiency, low emissions technology.

Opportunities

• Capital investment into rail infrastructure will increase exports.
• The majority of Eskom’s short- and medium-term coal supply contracts are being awarded to junior mining companies.

Threats

• Community protests are causing significant losses.
• Competition from other energy sources.
• Continuing uncertainty regarding South Africa’s mining regulatory framework.
• Growing international opposition to coal mining and coal-fired power generation, due to environmental concerns.
• Implementation of a carbon tax.
• India reducing imports by increasing domestic output.
• Rapidly increasing production costs.

Outlook

The International Energy Agency expects global coal demand to remain constant over the period to 2023 after it increased in 2017 and 2018. This would be the result of declining demand in Europe and North America being counterbalanced by higher consumption in Asian countries. XMP Consulting senior coal analyst, Xavier Prévost, believes South African coal output will decrease in the short term due to “the lack of incentives and capital to implement new coal projects”, and the depletion of reserves at existing mines. According to the Integrated Resource Plan 2018, coal consumption by Eskom is forecast to increase from 120Mt in 2017 to 139Mt in 2023, before dropping to current levels in 2033. The Australian Department of Industry, Innovation and Science’s latest Resources and Energy Quarterly forecasts that South Africa’s thermal coal exports will decrease by 1.4% between 2018 and 2020, since more coal will be sold domestically, rather than exported. Credit insurer Coface’s group economist, Ruben Nizard, believes that, although the future of the South African coal mining sector is uncertain due to several challenges it faces, the sector will remain important as a result of the high percentage of coal in the country’s energy mix.

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa
The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2019

Full Report

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

Industry Landscape

R 1 330.00(ZAR) estimated $ 75.42 (USD)*

Historical Reports

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2023-04-25

R 9 500.00(ZAR) estimated $538.72 (USD)*

View Report Add to Cart

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2020-10-29

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2017-06-07

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2015-11-25

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2014-02-14

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Table of Contents

[ Close ]
PAGE
1. INTRODUCTION 1
2. DESCRIPTION OF THE INDUSTRY 1
2.1. Industry Value Chain 2
2.2. Geographic Position 4
3. SIZE OF THE INDUSTRY 6
4. STATE OF THE INDUSTRY 7
4.1. Local 7
4.1.1. Corporate Actions 14
4.1.2. Regulations 18
4.1.3. Enterprise Development and Social Economic Development 21
4.2. Continental 22
4.3. International 23
5. INFLUENCING FACTORS 27
5.1. Economic Environment 27
5.2. Environmental Concerns 28
5.3. Inadequate Rail Infrastructure 30
5.4. Community Protests 30
5.5. Labour 30
5.6. Mine Safety 33
5.7. Technology, Research and Development (R&D) and Innovation 33
6. COMPETITION 35
6.1. Barriers to Entry 36
7. SWOT ANALYSIS 36
8. OUTLOOK 37
9. INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS 38
10. REFERENCES 38
10.1. Publications 38
10.2. Websites 39
APPENDIX 1 – SUMMARY OF NOTABLE PLAYERS 40
Mining of Coal and Lignite 40
Coal Testing Laboratories 49
COMPANY PROFILES – MINING OF COAL AND LIGNITE 52
AFRICAN EXPLORATION MINING AND FINANCE CORPORATION SOC LTD 52
ANGLO OPERATIONS (PTY) LTD 54
ANKER COAL AND MINERAL HOLDINGS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 57
ARM COAL (PTY) LTD 59
BLACK WATTLE COLLIERY (PTY) LTD 62
BUFFALO COAL CORPORATION 64
CANYON COAL (PTY) LTD 67
EXXARO RESOURCES LTD 69
GLENCORE PLC 74
IZIMBIWA COAL (PTY) LTD 82
KANGRA COAL (PTY) LTD 84
KEATON ENERGY HOLDINGS LTD 86
KUYASA MINING (PTY) LTD 89
LONDANI COAL (PTY) LTD 91
LURCO GROUP SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 93
MBUYELO COAL (PTY) LTD 95
MC MINING LTD 97
MMAKAU MINING (PTY) LTD 101
OSHO SA COAL (PTY) LTD 103
PETMIN (PTY) LTD 104
RESOURCE GENERATION LTD 106
SASOL LTD 109
SHIVA URANIUM (PTY) LTD 115
SOUTH32 LTD 119
UMCEBO MINING (PTY) LTD 123
UNICORN CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD 125
UNIVERSAL COAL AND ENERGY HOLDINGS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 128
WESCOAL HOLDINGS LTD 130
COMPANY PROFILES – COAL TESTING LABORATORIES 134
ALS CHEMEX SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 134
BUREAU VERITAS TESTING AND INSPECTIONS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 136
CHEM-SCIENCE LABORATORIES (PTY) LTD 138
COTECNA SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 140
COUNCIL FOR MINERAL TECHNOLOGY 142
ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LTD 145
GLENCORE OPERATIONS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 150
INTERTEK TESTING SERVICES (SOUTH AFRICA) (PTY) LTD 154
MBE MINERALS (SA) (PTY) LTD 156
MITRA S K SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 157
NOKO ANALYTICAL SERVICES CC 159
SASOL LTD 161
SGS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 167
SIBONISIWE COAL LABORATORY SERVICES CC 170
SIZA COAL SERVICES CC 171
SOUTH AFRICAN BUREAU OF STANDARDS 174
UIS ANALYTICAL SERVICES (PTY) LTD 177
UMZAMOWONKE TRADING AND PROJECTS 25 CC 179
YANKA LABORATORIES (PTY) LTD 181

Report Coverage

The report on the Coal Mining sector examines current conditions, developments and investment in the sector and provides import and export data. Also discussed are policy and regulatory uncertainty, the inadequate capacity of the export railway line, and rapidly rising input costs. Profiles for 26 coal mining companies are provided, including Glencore which placed Optimum Coal Holdings, subsequently acquired by Tegeta Exploration and Resources into business rescue in August 2015. Also profiled are 26 coal testing laboratories including SMMEs such as Gauteng-based Mitra SK South Africa (Pty) Ltd and Chem-Science Laboratories (Pty) Ltd in KwaZulu-Natal.

Introduction

This report focuses on the mining of coal, as well as the activities of coal testing laboratories in South Africa. During 2016 the South African coal mining sector produced 251.0 million tonnes (Mt) of coal, according to the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR), while information on the International Trade Centre’s Trade Map website shows that 76.4Mt of coal worth US$3.8bn was exported in 2016. Coal mining contributed R67bn or 1.8% to the country’s GDP at current prices in 2015, while more than 77,000 people were employed by the sector in 2016. Policy and regulatory uncertainty, the inadequate capacity of the export railway line, and rapidly rising input costs are all challenges facing the coal mining industry.

Strengths

• About 81% of the country’s electricity is generated using coal, thereby guaranteeing a market for thermal coal.
• Large coal export terminal at Richards Bay with the capacity to export 91Mt per year.
• Large coal-producing companies are well-established in South Africa.
• Significant coal reserves guarantee mining operations for more than 100 years at present production levels.
• South Africa is the world’s seventh-largest producer of coal.
• South Africa’s strategic location between the Atlantic and Pacific markets is favourable for exports to either market.
• The country is the sixth-largest exporter of coal.

Weaknesses

• Capacity constraints on the coal export line limit producers’ ability to increase exports.
• Shortage of skills in certain disciplines.

Opportunities

• Capital investment into rail and port infrastructure will increase export capacity.
• Eskom intends to reach the point where 50% of its coal requirements are met by black-owned coal mining companies.
• Exports to the Middle East and the rest of Africa are forecast to increase.
• New technologies that could reduce operating costs, such as a dry dense medium separation process.

Threats

• Competition from other energy sources.
• Future competition in export markets from Botswana and Mozambique.
• Growing international opposition to coal mining and coal-fired power generation, due to environmental concerns.
• Implementation of a carbon tax.
• Incorrect use of section 54 notices by inspectors.
• Rapidly increasing production costs.
• South Africa’s mining regulatory framework is complex and contains many uncertainties.

Outlook

According to the Australian Department of Industry, Innovation and Science’s Resources and Energy Quarterly, global thermal coal and lignite output is expected to grow at an average rate of 1.2% per annum, to 7.1bn tonnes by 2022. Increased output from Australia, South Africa and Russia are forecast to outweigh lower production in China and possibly Indonesia. The department also expects global demand for thermal coal and lignite to rise at an average rate of 1.0% per year, to reach 7.1bn tonnes in 2022 as a result of growth in the use of coal in the electricity generation mix of emerging economies. As far as South Africa is concerned, the Resources and Energy Quarterly forecasts that thermal coal exports will increase at an average rate of 0.9% per annum, to 78Mt by 2022. This growth in exports should be driven by increased demand for higher calorific coal from India to fuel its growing number of advanced technology, coal-fired power stations. Given existing and planned power generation expansion in South Africa, local thermal coal demand is expected to grow, at least within the short to medium-term.

Read More..
The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa
The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2017

Full Report

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

Industry Landscape

R 1 330.00(ZAR) estimated $ 75.42 (USD)*

Historical Reports

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2023-04-25

R 9 500.00(ZAR) estimated $538.72 (USD)*

View Report Add to Cart

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2020-10-29

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

View Report Add to Cart

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2019-05-02

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2015-11-25

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2014-02-14

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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Table of Contents

[ Close ]
PAGE
1. INTRODUCTION 1
2. DESCRIPTION OF THE INDUSTRY 1
2.1. Industry Value Chain 2
2.2. Geographic Position 5
3. SIZE OF THE INDUSTRY 7
4. STATE OF THE INDUSTRY 18
4.1. Local 18
4.1.1. Corporate Actions 23
4.1.2. Regulations 26
4.1.3. Enterprise Development and Social Economic Development 30
4.2. Continental 31
4.3. International 34
5. INFLUENCING FACTORS 38
5.1. Economic Environment 38
5.2. Environmental Concerns 39
5.3. Inadequate Rail Infrastructure 41
5.4. Labour 41
5.5. Mine Safety 44
5.6. Technology, Research and Development (R&D) and Innovation 45
6. COMPETITION 47
6.1. Barriers to Entry 48
7. SWOT ANALYSIS 49
8. OUTLOOK 50
9. INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS 50
10. REFERENCES 51
10.1. Publications 51
10.2. Websites 52
COMPANY PROFILES - MINING OF COAL AND LIGNITE 53
ANGLO OPERATIONS (PTY) LTD 53
ANKER COAL AND MINERAL HOLDINGS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 56
ARM COAL (PTY) LTD 58
BLACK WATTLE COLLIERY (PTY) LTD 61
BUFFALO COAL CORPORATION 63
BURGH GROUP HOLDINGS (RF) (PTY) LTD 66
CANYON COAL (PTY) LTD 68
COAL OF AFRICA LTD 70
EXXARO RESOURCES LTD 74
GLENCORE PLC 79
IZIMBIWA COAL (PTY) LTD 87
KANGRA COAL (PTY) LTD 89
KEATON ENERGY HOLDINGS LTD 91
KUYASA MINING (PTY) LTD 94
MBUYELO COAL (PTY) LTD 96
MMAKAU MINING (PTY) LTD 98
OAKBAY RESOURCES AND ENERGY LTD 100
PETMIN LTD 104
RESOURCE GENERATION LTD 107
SASOL LTD 110
SENTULA MINING LTD 115
SOUTH32 LTD 118
SUMO COAL (PTY) LTD 122
TEGETA RESOURCES (PTY) LTD 125
UMCEBO MINING (PTY) LTD 126
UNIVERSAL COAL AND ENERGY HOLDINGS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 128
WESCOAL HOLDINGS LTD 130
COMPANY PROFILES – COAL TESTING LABORATORIES 134
BUREAU VERITAS TESTING AND INSPECTIONS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 134
CHEM-SCIENCE LABORATORIES (PTY) LTD 136
COALLAB (PTY) LTD 138
COUNCIL FOR MINERAL TECHNOLOGY 140
ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LTD 144
GLENCORE OPERATIONS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 148
INTERTEK TESTING SERVICES (SOUTH AFRICA) (PTY) LTD 152
MBE MINERALS (SA) (PTY) LTD 154
MITRA SK SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 156
NOKO ANALYTICAL SERVICES CC 158
SASOL LTD 160
SGS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 165
SIZA COAL SERVICES CC 168
SOUTH AFRICAN BUREAU OF STANDARDS 171
UIS ANALYTICAL SERVICES (PTY) LTD 175
UMZAMOWONKE TRADING AND PROJECTS 25 CC 177
WITLAB (PTY) LTD 179
YANKA LABORATORIES (PTY) LTD 181

Report Coverage

The South African Coal Mining sector report describes the current market, outlines M&A developments and corporate activity within the sector and focuses on factors influencing its success. The report profiles 25 companies, including the five major producers, Anglo American, Glencore, Exxaro Resources, Sasol and BHP Billiton Coal South Africa, now South32. Also profiled are junior miners including Sumo Coal (Pty) Ltd, which employs 55 people at its Kopermyne Colliery and is involved in three exploration projects, and Continental Coal Ltd, which is currently undergoing business rescue proceedings.

Introduction

This report focuses on the mining of coal in South Africa as well as the activities of coal testing laboratories. During 2014 the South African coal mining sector produced 260.5 million tonnes (Mt) of coal, according to the BP Statistical Review of World Energy, while Trademap figures show that 77.9Mt of coal worth US$5.1bn were exported. According to the Chamber of Mines, almost 90,000 people were employed by the coal mining sector in 2014. Challenges faced by this sector relate mainly to regulatory changes that have brought uncertainty, insufficient investment into establishing new mines, inadequate rail infrastructure for the transport of coal for export, unreliable and reduced electricity supply, falling coal prices, and rapidly escalating production costs.

Strengths

• Eskom is dependent on coal for 90% of its power generation, thereby guaranteeing a market for thermal coal.
• Large coal export terminal at Richards Bay with the capacity to export 91Mt per year.
• Large coal producing companies are well-established in South Africa.
• Significant coal reserves guarantee mining operations for more than 100 years at present production levels.
• South Africa is the world’s sixth largest exporter of coal.
• South Africa’s strategic location between the Atlantic and Pacific markets is favourable for exports to either market.
• The government considers the coal mining industry as a key industry in South Africa.

Weaknesses

• Capacity constraints on the coal export line limit producers’ ability to increase exports.
• Coal mining and coal-fired power generation are not environmentally friendly.
• Shortage of skills in certain disciplines.

Opportunities

• Capital investment into rail and port infrastructure will increase export capacity.
• Eskom’s increasing need to secure long-term coal supply offers significant opportunities for local producers.
• The Waterberg coal field which is expected to become the country’s main source of future coal supply.

Threats

• Decreasing demand from key markets such as China and India.
• Eskom might move away from the cost plus model to rather buy coal from the cheapest supplier, potentially leaving tied collieries without a market for their coal.
• Future competition in export markets from Botswana and Mozambique.
• Growing international opposition to coal mining and coal-fired power generation.
• Implementation of a carbon tax.
• Low coal price.
• Rapidly increasing production costs.
• South Africa’s mining regulatory framework is complex and contains many uncertainties.
• The lack of consistent and reliable electricity supply.

Outlook

According to Australia’s Department of Industry and Science, global trade in thermal coal is forecast to increase at an average annual rate of 5% to 1,180Mt in 2020 as coal-fired electricity generation in developing countries is projected to increase over the medium term. These countries need increasing amounts of electricity and still mostly rely on coal as their main energy source as they prioritise low costs over environmental concerns. After a period of low coal prices, some companies have announced their intention to reduce production. Despite this there has not been a sufficient reduction in output to reduce the supply overhang. Beyond 2017 thermal coal prices are projected to increase moderately as demand increases and supply growth slows due to the closure of uncompetitive capacity.\r\n\r\nIn South Africa it is expected that a number of mines will be forced to close, particularly those of junior coal miners who are struggling to survive in the low-price environment. However, larger coal mining companies might choose to increase their reserves through mergers or acquisitions of struggling juniors. Given existing and planned power generation expansion in the country, local thermal coal demand is expected to grow, at least within the short to medium term.

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa
The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2015

Full Report

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

Industry Landscape

R 1 330.00(ZAR) estimated $ 75.42 (USD)*

Historical Reports

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2023-04-25

R 9 500.00(ZAR) estimated $538.72 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2020-10-29

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2019-05-02

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2017-06-07

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2014-02-14

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Table of Contents

[ Close ]
PAGE
1. INTRODUCTION 1
2. DESCRIPTION OF THE INDUSTRY 1
2.1. Industry Value Chain 2
2.2. Geographic Position 5
3. SIZE OF THE INDUSTRY 6
4. STATE OF THE INDUSTRY 19
4.1. Local 19
4.1.1. Corporate Actions 23
4.1.2. Regulations and Government Programmes 24
4.1.3. Enterprise Development and Social Economic Development 28
4.2. Continental 28
4.3. International 31
5. INFLUENCING FACTORS 34
5.1. Government Support and Intervention 34
5.2. Labour 35
5.3. Economic Environment 37
5.4. Information Technology 39
5.5. Environmental Concerns 40
5.6. Mine Safety 41
5.7. Power Supply 41
5.8. Inadequate Rail Infrastructure 42
6. COMPETITION 42
6.1. Barriers to Entry 43
6.2. Technology, Research and Development (R&D) and Innovation 44
7. SWOT ANALYSIS 45
8. OUTLOOK 46
9. INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS 46
10. REFERENCES 47
10.1. Publications 47
10.2. Websites 48
COMPANY PROFILES – COAL MINING 49
Anglo Operations (Pty) Ltd 49
Anker Coal and Mineral Holdings South Africa (Pty) Ltd 52
ARM Coal (Pty) Ltd 54
Black Wattle Colliery (Pty) Ltd 57
Buffalo Coal Corporation 59
Coal of Africa Ltd 62
Continental Coal Ltd 66
Exxaro Resources Ltd 68
Firestone Energy Ltd 72
Glencore Operations South Africa (Pty) Ltd 74
Kangra Coal (Pty) Ltd 78
Keaton Energy Holdings Ltd 80
Kuyasa Mining (Pty) Ltd 83
Mmakau Mining (Pty) Ltd 85
Petmin Ltd 87
Resource Generation Ltd 90
Sasol Mynbou (Pty) Ltd 93
Sentula Mining Ltd 96
Shanduka Coal (Pty) Ltd 100
South African Coal Mining Holdings Ltd 102
South32 Ltd 105
Sumo Coal (Pty) Ltd 109
Umcebo Mining (Pty) Ltd 111
Universal Coal and Energy Holdings South Africa (Pty) Ltd 113
Wescoal Holdings Ltd 115
COMPANY PROFILES – COAL TESTING LABORATORIES 119
Bureau Veritas Testing and Inspections South Africa (Pty) Ltd 119
Chem-Science Laboratories (Pty) Ltd 121
CoalLab (Pty) Ltd 123
Council for Mineral Technology 125
Eskom Enterprises SOC Ltd 129
Glencore Operations South Africa (Pty) Ltd 132
Intertek Testing Services (SA) (Pty) Ltd 136
MBE Minerals (SA) (Pty) Ltd 138
Midlab CC 140
Mitra SK South Africa (Pty) Ltd 142
Noko Analytical Services CC 144
Sasol Ltd 146
SGS South Africa (Pty) Ltd 156
Siza Coal Services CC 160
South African Bureau of Standards 163
UIS Analytical Services (Pty) Ltd 166
Witlab (Pty) Ltd 168
Yanka Laboratories (Pty) Ltd 170

Introduction

Coal plays a vital role in the South African economy and earned revenue of R95bn in 2012. South Africa is the world’s 5th largest coal producer and supplies coal to the domestic and international markets, mainly Asia. Domestic demand for coal is driven by South Africa’s energy-intensive economy where more than 90% of South Africa’s electricity is generated with coal. Challenges facing the industry relate mainly to regulatory changes that have brought uncertainty to the sector, insufficient investment into establishing new mines and inadequate rail and port infrastructure for the transport and export of coal.

Strengths

• Eskom is dependent on domestic thermal coal for all its\npower generation, thereby guaranteeing a market for\nthermal coal.
• Large coal export terminal at Richards Bay with the\npotential to export 91Mtpa.
• Shallow coal seams which mean less expensive mining\noperations.
• Significant coal reserves guarantee mining operations\nfor more than 100 years at present production levels.
• South Africa’s strategic location between the East and\nthe West is favourable for export to either market.
• The coal mining industry is an established industry with\na mature mining culture.
• The government has earmarket the coal mining industry\nas a key industry in South Africa.

Weaknesses

• Coal mining and coal-fired power generation are not environmentally friendly.
• Governed by departments beset by regulatory problems and administrative delays.
• The coal export market is affected by the global economy, TFR and RBCT export allocations and rail and port infrastructure constraints.

Opportunities

• Capital investment into the rail freight and port\ninfrastructure will increase export capacity to increase\nexport volumes.
• Coal demand in India and Asia is expected to grow and\nthere is significant potential for low-grade coal exports\nto India.
• Eskom is increasing its number of coal-fired power\nstations which presents new low-grade coal\nopportunities for junior BEE miners and established\nlarge players.
• Eskom’s implementation of the revised BEE code will\ncreate opportunities for junior miners with 50%+1 BEE\nshareholding.
• The Waterberg deposits, which are widely expected to\nbecome the country’s main future coal resource.

Threats

• Continued slow-down of the Chinese economy that willlead to lower coal demand from the country.
• Environmental concerns and tax credit policy drive the development of alternatives to coal-fired electricity generation.
• Increases in fuel, labour costs and electricity costs coupled with lower international coal prices reduce the margins and profitability of coal mines.
• Increasingly militant labour action and regulatory uncertainty in South Africa threatens production and investment.
• Skills shortages in the global industry coupled with inadequate training of new graduates and artisans limits the number of new mining operations that can be\nexplored and threatens the operational efficiency of current mines. The skill shortage also affects the effectiveness of coal testing laboratories.
• The possibility that coal may be declared a strategic asset may threaten export volumes in favour of domestic supply to Eskom.

Outlook

The long-term outlook for the coal mining industry is positive and coal is likely to remain the dominant energy source for the next 20 years. World primary energy consumption is projected to grow by 36%, at a rate of 2% up to 2020 and 1.5% thereafter to 2030. In the medium-term, growing Asian demand for coal and the stockpiling of coal for the European winter from August each year is likely to increase global coal prices. This is expected to drive the market for seaborne thermal coal. The Waterberg deposits are expected to become South Africa’s main future coal resource, which will help South Africa meet future demand. \r\n\r\nThe coal testing industry, though experiencing low demand for its services in some areas, is positive that increased exploration in the industry will lead to an upswing in activity for the laboratories in 2014. However, analysts forecast that the coal mining industry will still be negatively affected by political and regulatory uncertainty, the lack of a coal-specific policy, growing labour unrest and a lack of adequately skilled engineers and artisans.

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa
The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2014

Full Report

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

Industry Landscape

R 1 330.00(ZAR) estimated $ 75.42 (USD)*

Historical Reports

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2023-04-25

R 9 500.00(ZAR) estimated $538.72 (USD)*

View Report Add to Cart

The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2020-10-29

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2019-05-02

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2017-06-07

R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $107.74 (USD)*

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The Coal Mining Sector in South Africa 2015-11-25

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Table of Contents

[ Close ]
PAGE
1. INTRODUCTION 1
2. DESCRIPTION OF THE INDUSTRY 1
2.1. Industry Supply Chain 2
3. SIZE OF THE INDUSTRY 2
4. STATE OF THE INDUSTRY 11
4.1. Local 11
4.1.1. Corporate Actions 13
4.1.2. Regulations 14
4.1.3. Black Economic Empowerment 15
4.2. Continental 16
4.3. International 17
5. INFLUENCING FACTORS 19
5.1. Regulatory Issues 19
5.2. Inadequate Rail and Port Infrastructure 19
5.3. Increased Demand for Coal-Based Energy 20
5.4. Economic Environment 20
5.5. Government Administrative Problems 20
5.6. Labour Resources 21
5.7. Technology 21
5.8. Environmental Concerns 22
5.9. Rising Input Costs 22
5.10. Cyclicality and Weather Conditions 22
6. COMPETITION 22
6.1. Barriers to Entry 23
6.2. Research and Development (R&D) and Innovation 23
7. SWOT ANALYSIS 24
8. OUTLOOK 24
9. INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS 25
10. REFERENCES 26
10.1. Publications 26
10.2. Websites 26
ORGANOGRAM 21000 28
Mining of Coal and Lignite 28
COMPANY PROFILES 32
ANGLO OPERATIONS (PTY) LTD 32
ANKER COAL & MINERAL HOLDINGS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 35
ARM COAL (PTY) LTD 37
BHP BILLITON ENERGY COAL SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 39
BISICHI COAL MINING (PTY) LTD 41
BLACK WATTLE COLLIERY (PTY) LTD 42
BUFFALO COAL CORPORATION 43
COAL OF AFRICA LTD 45
CONTINENTAL COAL LTD 48
EXXARO COAL (PTY) LTD 50
FIRESTONE ENERGY LTD 53
GLENCORE OPERATIONS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 55
HWANGE COLLIERY COMPANY LTD 58
KANGRA COAL (PTY) LTD 60
KEATON ENERGY HOLDINGS LTD 62
KUYASA MINING (PTY) LTD 64
MMAKAU MINING (PTY) LTD 65
OPTIMUM COAL HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD 67
PETMIN LTD 69
RESOURCE GENERATION LTD 71
SASOL MINING (PTY) LTD 73
SENTULA MINING LTD 75
SHANDUKA COAL (PTY) LTD 77
SOUTH AFRICAN COAL MINING HOLDINGS LTD 78
SUMO COAL (PTY) LTD 80
TOTAL COAL SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 82
UMCEBO MINING (PTY) LTD 84
UNIVERSAL COAL & ENERGY HOLDINGS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 85
WATERBERG COAL COMPANY LTD (THE) 87
WESCOAL HOLDINGS LTD 89
ORGANOGRAM 88220b 91
Coal Testing Laboratories 91
COMPANY PROFILES 93
BUREAU VERITAS TESTING AND INSPECTIONS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 93
CHEM-SCIENCE LABORATORIES CC 94
COALLAB (PTY) LTD 95
COUNCIL FOR MINERAL TECHNOLOGY 96
ESKOM ENTERPRISES SOC LTD 98
GLENCORE OPERATIONS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 100
INTERTEK TESTING SERVICES (SA) (PTY) LTD 103
MBE MINERALS (SA) (PTY) LTD 105
MIDLAB CC 106
MITRA SK SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 107
NOKO ANALYTICAL SERVICES CC 108
SASOL LTD 109
SGS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 113
SIZA COAL SERVICES CC 115
SOUTH AFRICAN BUREAU OF STANDARDS 117
UIS ANALYTICAL SERVICES (PTY) LTD 119
VRYHEID COAL LABORATORIES CC 120
WITLAB (PTY) LTD 121
YANKA LABORATORIES (PTY) LTD 122