Government has been silent about a proposed export levy on chrome ore since hatching the idea in October last year.
According to proponents of the levy, making chrome ore more expensive for Chinese ferrochrome producers will benefit the local ferrochrome sector, which is struggling to make money owing to Eskom’s prohibitive, above-inflation energy tariff increases.
The chrome ore industry, through ChromeSA, has hit back forcibly. It first described the proposal as “egregious” but failed to win exemption from the Competition Commission that would have enabled it to discuss alternatives to the export tax.
All eyes now fall on the country’s medium-term budget policy statement, which has been tabled by newly appointed finance minister Enoch Godongwana for 4 November. The hope is that Godongwana provides more clarity, although ChromeSA is hoping it can yet have its voice heard.
David Kovarsky, spokesman for ChromeSA, answered questions posed by finweek on where a chrome ore tax would leave SA at a time when commodity prices were high-flying.
What is ChromeSA and what’s the beef with government?
This story is from the 8 October 2021 edition of Finweek English.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the 8 October 2021 edition of Finweek English.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The effect of Gilbertson's departure
With Ntsimbintle Holdings now the major shareholder of Jupiter Mines, it could change SA’s manganese industry.
Big city living exodus
Mini cities like Waterfall City and Steyn City are redefining city-style apartment living.
Big compact, big value
Handsome, with a hefty level of standard specification, the roomy Haval Jolion compact crossover is a great value proposition.
Africa's largest data centre facility coming soon
Vantage Data Centers plans to invest over R15bn for its first African data centre facility in Attacq’s Waterfall City.
How do I protect the value of my investments against inflation?
It is not easy to find the right balance, but a portfolio should be well-diversified and structured to the environment.
Expectation versus reality
Consider the potential outcomes when buying stocks.
Don't panic, but be cautious
The current energy crisis unfolding in the UK is an example of slow-motion market action. Will it resolve itself?
Don't outlive your money
Make the right choices in retirement by keeping a keen interest in your post-retirement investments.
Rebuilding from the unrest
South Africa is exposed to an enormous economic security risk by concentrating most of its trade in KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape offers an opportunity to deconcentrate trade.
The lure of retiring abroad
Dreaming of retiring in an exotic destination? Here’s what you need to know.