Multinational mining, metals processing, and recycling group Sibanye-Stillwater has reaffirmed its commitment to investing in and strengthening trade in both South Africa and the US, despite geopolitical tensions and policy differences. The company's CEO, Dr. Richard Stewart, emphasized that commercial partnerships must transcend political differences, enabling the creation of jobs and economic growth in both countries. With significant operations in both nations, Sibanye-Stillwater views its commitment as unwavering and central to its identity and long-term future.
Sibanye-Stillwater's operations have a substantial impact on employment in both countries, supporting approximately 64,000 jobs in South Africa and 1,400 jobs in the US. In South Africa, the company's operations contribute significantly to one of the country's most important industries, driving employment, exports, local procurement, and economic activity across mining communities. The company's commitment to South Africa is further demonstrated by its recent investment of around R12 billion in capital projects across its gold and platinum group metals (PGM) operations, with an additional R8 billion to R10 billion under consideration.
The company's expansion into the US market was marked by its $2.7 billion acquisition of the Stillwater PGM operations in Montana in 2017. This investment has been a defining moment in transforming Sibanye-Stillwater's global footprint and establishing the US as a cornerstone of its long-term growth strategy. The Stillwater operations are the only significant source of primary platinum and palladium production outside Southern Africa and Russia. Sibanye-Stillwater has reinforced its commitment to the US with an additional $260 million investment in US recycling operations.
Sibanye-Stillwater's investments extend beyond South Africa and the US, with significant projects in Finland and Australia. In Finland, the company has invested approximately €783 million in the Keliber lithium project, supported by a €500 million green financing package backed by the EU. In Australia, Sibanye-Stillwater has approved the restart of the Mt Lyell copper-gold project, working with the government to address legacy environmental and safety challenges and unlock its economic potential.
The company's purpose is to create a better future for people and the planet by producing the metals the world needs, investing in its people, strengthening the communities in which it operates, and creating sustainable value for all stakeholders. Sibanye-Stillwater's presence in both the US and South Africa reflects a fundamental truth: political relationships may shift, but shared economic interests endure. The company's long-term approach to investment and partnerships is crucial in delivering lasting value to stakeholders in both countries.
Delivering on its commitments requires constructive partnerships with governments built on mutual respect, open dialogue, and shared economic interests. In South Africa, Sibanye-Stillwater is helping lead the Government-Business Partnership, serving as CEO co-sponsor of the mining growth initiative to unlock investment and strengthen the industry's competitiveness. In the US, the company's engagement with federal agencies has helped secure support for its operations, including through Section 45X of the Inflation Reduction Act.
Dr. Richard Stewart, Sibanye-Stillwater's CEO, recently participated in the 14th edition of Joburg Indaba, a premier mining and investment conference held in Sandton, Johannesburg, on October 7 and 8, 2026. The conference provided a platform for Stewart to discuss how geopolitical volatility is reshaping the mining sector and influencing South African companies. Sibanye-Stillwater's commitment to long-term investment and partnerships underscores its role as a responsible and sustainable player in the global mining industry.
Key points
- Sibanye-Stillwater's CEO emphasizes the importance of commercial partnerships transcending political differences.
- The company has significant investments in South Africa and the US, supporting thousands of jobs and driving economic growth.
- Sibanye-Stillwater's long-term approach to investment and partnerships is crucial in delivering lasting value to stakeholders in both countries.
