In mid-February 2025, posts on social media sites like Facebook (archived here) alleged that the nation of South Africa had announced a ban on all United States-based businesses there and was halting all mining exports to the U.

South Africa has neither suspended U.S. businesses from operating in the country nor stopped exporting minerals to the U.S., contrary to a claim made online in response to Washington’s decision to cut aid.

Investor participation in mining through BRICS partnerships offers several advantages, including capital inflow, access to advanced technology and expanded markets.

South Africa's mining production decreased by 2.4% year-on-year in December, with platinum group metals (PGMs) and gold having made the largest negative contributions. PGM production decreased by 7.1% year-on-year and contributed -2.