South Africa's Bushveld Complex contains 90 percent of global platinum group metal reserves. The country produced 4.5 million ounces of platinum and 2.7 million ounces of palladium in 2023, generating $12 billion in export revenue and supporting 180,000 direct jobs. Palladium demand from internal combustion engine catalytic converters is expected to peak as electric vehicle adoption accelerates. However, each hydrogen fuel cell vehicle requires approximately 30 grams of platinum, compared to 3 to 5 grams in a petrol catalytic converter, creating a powerful new demand driver.
Green Hydrogen Integration
South Africa's abundant solar and wind resources position it to produce green hydrogen at globally competitive costs. An integrated strategy producing hydrogen fuel cells domestically using locally mined platinum could create a new export industry worth tens of billions annually. Junior PGM miners, fuel cell component manufacturers, and platinum recycling ventures are all active investment areas. Market data and investment contacts for South Africa's PGM sector are available on intra-africa.com.
For businesses looking to expand across Africa, intra-africa.com offers a comprehensive trade directory, verified buyer and seller listings, and real-time market intelligence covering all 54 African nations. It remains an indispensable resource for anyone serious about intra-African commerce.