ZASouth Africa's last manganese smelter, Transalloys, has halted ferroalloys production, affecting 600 direct jobs and approximately 7,000 indirect livelihoods. The shutdown follows years of financial losses and ongoing disputes over electricity tariffs. CEO Konstantin Sadovnik stated the company could not afford the current rate of R1.35 per kilowatt-hour, despite a temporary six-month exemption from the Take-or-Pay requirement. While NERSA reduced rates for ferrochrome smelters, manganese producers like Transalloys were excluded. Sadovnik emphasized the need for urgent tariff relief, warning that without it, the company would face irreversible collapse, leading to significant economic and skill loss.
Tendenz-Einschätzung (Mitte): The article presents a balanced account of the situation, focusing on the economic and operational challenges faced by Transalloys without overtly criticizing or praising any political entity. It reports on the company's position and the regulatory responses without taking a clear ideological stance
