Jan 24, 2025 | Industry

South Africa’s Steel Industry at a Crossroads: Implications for the Automotive Sector

The South African government is in urgent discussions with ArcelorMittal to prevent the closure of its major steel plants in Newcastle and Vereeniging. These potential shutdowns could lead to many direct job losses and have significant repercussions for the automotive industry, which relies heavily on local steel production. President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasizes the critical importance of these facilities for the nation’s infrastructure and industrial capabilities. The outcome of these talks will be pivotal for the future of automotive manufacturing in South Africa.