South Africa’s mining sector recorded its strongest growth in more than a year in April 2026, with output rising 8.2% year-on-year, driven largely by robust production of platinum group metals (PGMs), manganese ore and chromium ore.
Data released by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) showed that the increase marked a significant acceleration from the revised 2.5% growth recorded in March, highlighting the sector’s continued recovery after a difficult period marked by weak commodity demand and operational challenges.
According to the data, PGMs remained the biggest contributor to the increase in mining production, benefiting from stronger output and favourable market conditions. Manganese ore and chromium ore also made substantial contributions to the overall growth in the sector.
Industry analysts noted that part of the strong year-on-year increase reflected a relatively weak comparison base from April 2025, when production levels were subdued. Nevertheless, the latest figures point to improving momentum in one of South Africa’s most important export industries.
The mining sector has shown a consistent upward trend during the first months of 2026. Output increased by 4.6% in January and surged 9.7% in February before moderating to 2.5% in March.
The April result therefore represents a return to stronger growth and underscores the sector’s resilience despite ongoing challenges in some commodity segments.
PGMs have been at the centre of the recovery. Earlier Stats SA data showed PGM production rising sharply during the first quarter of the year, supported by stronger global demand and improved prices. South Africa remains the world’s leading producer of platinum, supplying about 70% of global output.
The strong performance of platinum producers has been reinforced by a surge in precious metal prices. Reuters recently reported that elevated platinum prices and improved production boosted earnings across the sector, with miners benefiting from tight global supplies and renewed industrial demand.
Despite the positive headline figures, some parts of the mining industry continue to face pressure. Coal and iron ore production have lagged behind stronger-performing commodities in recent months, reflecting softer demand conditions and operational constraints.
Similar trends were evident earlier this year when declines in coal and iron ore partially offset gains in PGMs, gold and manganese production.
Mining remains a cornerstone of South Africa’s economy, contributing an estimated 6% to 7% of gross domestic product, generating more than half of merchandise export earnings and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs.
The sector’s recent rebound is therefore expected to provide a welcome boost to economic growth and export revenues.
Economists say the sustainability of the recovery will depend on continued strength in commodity markets, stable energy supplies and investment in mining operations.
For now, however, April’s 8.2% increase signals that South Africa’s mining industry remains on a firmer footing, with platinum, manganese and chrome producers leading the way.
