The Minerals Council South Africa has welcomed the release of the country's Critical Minerals Strategy and the announcement of the public consultation on the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Bill (MRDB). Both initiatives were launched by Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Gwede Mantashe on May 20. The strategy identifies minerals such as platinum, manganese, iron ore, coal, and chrome ore as critical minerals vital to the national economy. The MRDB aims to align mining-related legislation with global trends and economic developments. The strategy and the bill are seen as important tools to unlock the potential of South Africa's mining sector, drive economic growth, and facilitate energy transition at this critical juncture. The Minerals Council has been invited twice by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy to participate in consultations on the main content of the MRDB and to assist the department and Mintek in defining the criteria for critical minerals. Currently, the council is reviewing the strategy and the bill, emphasizing the importance of promoting exploration investment, new mine development, and the long-term sustainable development and expansion of the mining sector.