Rio Tinto approves R8.5bn Zulti South project to secure RBM’s future until 2050

Global mining giant Rio Tinto has approved Richards Bay Minerals’ Zulti South project, lifting a suspension that has been in place since January 2020 and unlocking a major investment into South Africa’s mineral sands sector.

The approximately R8.5 billion (US$473 million) development is set to extend the mine’s life to 2050, reinforcing RBM’s operational continuity and safeguarding jobs in KwaZulu-Natal for decades to come. The decision signals renewed stability for the operation following years of uncertainty.

RBM currently operates within the Zulti North lease area, which includes a mineral separation plant and smelting facility. As the orebody at Zulti North continues to decline, Zulti South has become critical to maintaining consistent production levels. The project will ensure a stable supply of zircon, rutile and ilmenite, supporting titanium dioxide (TiO₂) sales throughout the remaining life of the mine.

Importantly, the project is not positioned as an expansion, but rather as a sustainability measure designed to maintain output, secure employment and protect the economic contribution RBM makes to the province, the country and host communities.

China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) has been appointed as the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor for Zulti South. The company was selected based on its proven track record in delivering complex infrastructure and mining projects, including its strategic partnership with Rio Tinto on the Simandou project in Guinea.

At Simandou, CHEC demonstrated successful delivery of large-scale EPC scopes while adhering to Health, Environment, Safety and Community (HSEC) standards, rapidly mobilising resources and integrating global expertise with local execution.

Werner Duvenhage, Managing Director of Rio Tinto Iron & Titanium Africa Operations & RBM, said lifting the suspension marks a pivotal moment for the operation.

“Lifting the suspension on Zulti South means securing the future of RBM. This project is not about expansion; it represents our commitment to sustaining jobs and continuing to make a meaningful contribution to the province, the country, and the host communities.

“The decision to proceed also reflects improved security conditions and strengthened community partnerships. The support of government, Amakhosi and host communities has been vital in getting us where we are today and establishing this stability. We are committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure the project’s continued success.”

He added that CHEC’s performance at Simandou, along with its established presence on the continent, gives Rio Tinto confidence in its ability to deliver Zulti South safely and efficiently, while meeting community and local content commitments.

Wu Di, Vice President of CHEC, welcomed the appointment, stating: “We are honoured to be chosen as Rio Tinto’s strategic execution partner for Zulti South. Our relationship is founded on trust, performance, and shared values. We are committed to delivering a project that strengthens RBM’s future and benefits local communities.”

Construction is anticipated to commence in Q1 2026 and will take approximately 30 months to complete, with initial commercial production expected in Q4 2028. The first phase will support RBM’s supply of zircon and ilmenite, while a second phase will follow as part of a broader long-term development strategy.

The approval of Zulti South represents a significant milestone for South Africa’s mineral sands industry, underscoring Rio Tinto’s long-term commitment to Richards Bay and reinforcing investor confidence in the region’s mining future.