Operational Update: Temporary Suspension of Production Operations at Boshoek, Wonderkop and Lion Smelters

The Glencore-Merafe Chrome Venture (“the Venture”) announced the temporary suspension of ferrochrome smelting operations at the Boshoek Smelter, effective 1 May 2025, and the Lion and Wonderkop Smelters, effective 31 May 2025. During this suspension, essential maintenance will be conducted at the Wonderkop and Boshoek Smelters and the Lion Smelter will undertake its scheduled annual maintenance and planned rebuilds.

This decision, while extremely difficult, has been necessitated by challenges facing the South African ferrochrome industry which pose a serious threat to the long-term sustainability of the industry.

South Africa holds approximately 80% of the world’s known chrome ore reserves, positioning the country as a key player in global ferrochrome production. However, without urgent and coordinated action, this strategic advantage is at risk.

The Venture remains committed to engaging with all relevant stakeholders, including regulatory authorities, industry bodies, organised labour, and suppliers, to explore viable solutions. Our goal is to identify cost-saving measures and policy interventions that can help safeguard the future of South Africa’s ferrochrome sector.

We will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves and remain dedicated to working collaboratively to find sustainable solutions for the industry.