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Eritrea to get solar mini-grid system (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Energy

The African Development Bank (AfDB) has announced plans to invest US$58mn into Eritrea’s power system to expand clean electricity and support rural economic growth
 
The funding will expand access to reliable and clean electricity across three towns in the country’s southwest Gash Barka region.
 
It will support deployment of a 34 MW solar-powered mini-grid system that will strengthen distribution networks and expand local energy capacity, delivering affordable, reliable electricity for households and businesses in and around Tesseney, Berantu and Kerkebet, according to said Kevin Kariuki, AfDB’s vice-president for power, energy, climate and green growth.
 
“This timely investment will help deliver reliable and affordable clean power to communities in Eritrea that need it most,” he said, “thereby spurring job creation, strengthening local economies and helping Eritrea move towards a sustainable energy future.”
 
Under the Eritrea Energy Integrated Project for Tesseney, Kerkebet and Berantu, AfDB will provide an African Development Fund grant of US$37.31mn, plus a US$20.73mn grant sourced from the bank’s Transition Support Facility.
 
The project will also power clean water pumping, improve irrigation and agricultural productivity, and enable small enterprises and agro-processing to extend operating hours and reduce costs.
 
In addition, 542 km of distribution lines will be constructed or upgraded.
 
The project is also expected to create jobs, particularly during construction and operational phases and will strengthen local technical skills and support the growth of small enterprises linked to renewable energy services.
 
Overall, the Eritrea Energy Integrated Project is expected to benefit around 306,000 people, as well as help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions over time, and support Eritrea’s transition towards a low carbon and climate resilient economy.
 
The project, which falls under the AfDB’s Desert to Power initiative, adopts an integrated approach that links energy access with agro-processing, irrigation, and local industrial development to unlock broader socio-economic transformation.
 
Desert to Power is the bank’s flagship renewable energy and economic development initiative that aims to harness the vast solar energy potential of eleven countries in the Sahel: Burkina Faso, Chad, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, and Sudan.
 
It aims to increase electricity access for populations in regional member countries within the context of Mission 300 – a partnership with the World Bank to deliver electricity to 300 million additional Africans by 2030.
 
Read more:
 
 
 
 
 
 

ABB deploys high performance rectifier and controller technology to stabilise power at MMC refinery in Mbombela. (Image source: ABB)

Energy

ABB has implemented advanced controller technology for high-power rectifier systems at the Manganese Metal Company refinery in Mbombela, strengthening power stability at the facility

Located in South Africa’s Mpumalanga province, MMC holds a unique position in global markets as the only producer of high-grade electrolytic manganese metal outside China. It is also the world’s largest refinery of 99.9% selenium-free EMM. The company supplies more than 120 customers across 20 countries, with approximately 95% of its annual output exported for applications such as lithium-ion battery production, alloying, welding and electronics.

To safeguard operational continuity in a competitive international environment, MMC required a solution to counter power instability that had been placing strain on ageing transformers. ABB addressed this challenge by integrating its AC 800PEC high-performance controller with six MCR1000 high-power rectifier units. The controller is engineered for rapid and accurate responses to grid fluctuations, supporting high-speed control algorithms with cycle times as low as 100 microseconds for fast control loops.

The upgraded system is designed to ensure a more stable power flow to the manganese production plant, enhancing availability and supporting higher productivity levels. According to the customer, the advanced control platform has significantly reduced unplanned outages and improved overall operational reliability, resulting in more predictable production performance.

“We were faced with several critical challenges that affected our operations and potentially our market position,” said Teheli Morabe, chief operating officer, MMC.

“Technical constraints, particularly the use of older rectifier technology, resulted in trips whenever there was adverse weather and during electrical grid fluctuations. The plant’s continuous production demands meant that downtime was not an option, and so we had to resolve these issues without disrupting operations. ABB’s innovations not only addressed our immediate operational challenges but also established a foundation for long-term stability and competitiveness.”

“Our project with MMC is an example of ABB working in an unseen way yet making a significant positive impact to important customer operations,” said Ralph Burgener, Global Business Unit Manager for High-Power Rectifier, ABB’s Process Industries division.

“Power supply challenges exist the world over but are particularly well-known in South Africa. To be able to overcome that with automated, power control technologies brings a great deal of satisfaction to our teams as engineers. We are enabling this manganese plant to compete internationally, which aligns with ABB’s mission of engineered to outrun.”

Glencore driving DRC's copper mining growth

Mining

Mining giant Glencore has reached an agreement with Gécamines regarding land access for Kamoto Copper Company (KCC) in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
 
The agreement unlocks a package of long-term mining titles and leases, including expansion of a tailings storage facility and waste rock dump capacities, enabling KCC life of mine extension.
 
“This agreement will allow us to unlock the full potential of KCC by increasing efficiencies at the mine, facilities and other key infrastructure requirements,” said Mark Davis, chief operating officer of Glencore Copper Africa region.
 
“It will also help us to achieve our c.300,000 tonne per annum copper production long-term target and extend KCC’s life of mine into the mid-2040s.”
 
The agreement with Gécamines also allows Glencore the ability to maximise recovery of ore reserves within existing KCC exploitation permits, including from the KOV and T17 mining areas.
 
Gécamines maintains the rights to any ore reserves extracted from within the leased land package.
 
“The agreement aligns with the Glencore Copper Strategy of continuing to offer volume upside and longevity to Glencore’s Copper Africa Region,” said Jon Evans, industrial lead copper at Glencore.
 
Copper is critical for power, construction and the green energy transition with mining companies competing to expand production through organic growth, acquisitions and other deals.
 
The closing of the agreement with Gécamines is subject to the registration of the mining titles lease agreements in the mining cadastre, which is expected to occur in the coming months, a Glencore statement noted.
 
Read more:
 
 
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African Review

  • In the final webinar of its African Review-hosted 2023 campaign, Convergent Group explored its modern, eco-friendly concrete solutions for African projects

    Such solutions – delivered to cut maintenance costs by eliminating hazardous silicate products – were showcased by company experts in the form of Jean-Claude Biard, SEO of Convergent Group SA; Mputu Schmidt, former CEO of Convergent Group SA and founder of Bondeko MB (exclusive distributor of Convergent Group in Africa); Carlos Garcia, technical and sales for ADI Group (Spanish distributor for Convergent Group); and Amritpal Singh Sura, external consultant for flooring treatments, former distributor of Convergent products in the Middle East.

    “A number of projects we were doing in the Middle East required protection,” remarked Sura. “Longevity of protection requires a system which basically impregnates and becomes a densified surface as opposed to something which is topical and lifts off due to moisture migration. I found that being exposed to Convergent, it was important to stay focused on those systems in the Middle East. Jean-Claude, Mputu and I met several times in Dubai and there was emphasis on providing systems which were affordable and still ending up having a robust, lasting longevity of product. So you are not spending money all the time in order to maintain the finishes which you have already paid for.”

    Over the course of the session, the participants guided the audience through the potential of cutting-edge lithium silicate technology for enhancing the protection of concrete surfaces, maximising cost-effectiveness and meeting sustainability targets. 

  • In a comprehensive webinar hosted by African Review, a panel of professionals associated with Convergent Group explored new generation lithium silicate technology and why it is emerging as the optimum solution for concrete floor protection.

    Robert Daniels, editor of African Review, was joined by Jean-Claude Biard, CEO of Convergent Group; Mputu Schmidt, former CEO of Convergent and founder of Bondeko MB, an exclusive distributor of Convergent; Hicham Sofyani, president of Texol; Carlos Garcia, technical and sales for ADI Group; and Marc Puig, commercial manager of Comace Import.

    Each providing a unique angle, the panellists combined to provide a masterclass around concrete treatments and the increasing challenges around them, explaining to attendees how to choose the right formula for their requirements and touching on issues such as why lithium densifiers are better than sodium and potassium densifiers. 

    Throughout the session, those watching were treated to informative case studies showcasing how Convergent eco-friendly products are increasing abrasion resistance, raising ease of maintenance, and ensuring the highest quality gloss retention. 

    By the end of the webinar, a majority of attendees (many of which had not had much experience with Convergent) expressed their interest in using the company’s new generation lithium silicate technology with the rest indicating their desire to learn more about Convergent and its products. Watch the webinar, in full, to discover why viewers were convinced and learn more about advanced floor care solutions for your operations.

  • Presenting on an African Review-hosted webinar, Martin Provencher, global industry principal for mining, metals and materials at AVEVA, explored the digital transformation of mining operations and its impact on sustainability.

    “Sustainability is becoming a key aspect for mining operations,” remarked Provencher. “If we look at the latest EY research on the top ten business risks and opportunities for mining and metals globally in 2023, ESG remains at the top. Of course, most companies have environmental goals or are expected to reach a net zero emission by 2050, which is a pretty aggressive target. Many of them are targeting 30% reduction by 2030; seven years from now. So there is a lot of action that needs to take place quickly to get there. It is possible to get there, but we need to make sure we are doing this correctly.”

    Fast becoming a huge part of ESG initiatives is fleet electrification where particular progress is being made in underground mines. While some countries are certainly more advanced than others here, Provencher noted that 40% of total emissions from the mining industry come from diesel trucks, making EVs a very attractive low-hanging fruit for companies to pursue. 

    There are, however, a number of challenges associated with bringing in electric vehicles which remains a barrier for introduction. One of the predominant reasons, is the limited range of EVs against diesel counterparts. To mitigate this, Provencher continued, data management is key and ensuring a strong grasp of real-time information coming in will show operators when machinery needs to be charged, allowing them to plan effectively for maximum efficiency on site.  

    Indeed, this is but a small advantage that digitalisation can bring to the mining industry as it grapples to meet ESG goals while achieving production targets. By getting a better grip of their data and using it to empower tools such as artificial intelligence, advanced analytics and machine learning, companies can achieve tangible benefits such as reduce downtime, enhance worker safety, cut operating costs and, of course, ensure compliance with environmental regulations and targets. 

    Through the course of the webinar, Provencher outlined this in more detail and explored AVEVA’s suite of cutting-edge software solutions, specifically designed to help mining companies make progress on their digitalisation journey and empower their operations. 

    Watch the full webinar, completed with detailed case studies and an insightful Q&A session.

  • Convergent, in association with African Review, has held a detailed webinar exploring the usage and effectiveness of lithium silicates and densifiers over traditional methods of concrete surface management which often struggle to meet the increasing challenges posed by concrete surface management.

    Convergent experts including Mputu Schmidt, CEO of Convergent; Carlos Garcia, product manager end-user solutions, construction chemicals, Spain and Portugal for the RD Group; Matteo Mozzarelli, CEO of concrete Solutions Italia; and Jean-Claude Biard, global senior executive for the Convergent Group, presented across the session. 

    Together, they delved into the latest cost-effective application methods for long lasting finishing of concrete that can help reduce maintenance costs and avoid unexpected repair action. In addition, they examined the advancements in technologies that can sustain increased abrasion resistant stains and ensure gloss retention to the highest quality. 

    As part of the webinar, the representatives explored case studies including a case in DRC where a medical centre had been constructed with a low-quality concrete floor. The customer was considering completely replacing the floor but instead, Convergent put forward a special treatment with its 244+ Pentra-Sil lithium hardener, densifier and sealer. With this solution, Convergent can increase the hardness of a surface by up to 40% and therefore saved the customer significant recuperation costs over a complete replacement. Convergent were happy to report that the solution was perfect for the facility and the customer was pleased to avoid the extra construction work that would have been required for a complete replacement. 

    Watch the full webinar, including more information about Convergent’s innovative solutions.

Top Stories

Grid List

Energy

ABB deploys high performance rectifier and controller technology to stabilise power at MMC refinery in Mbombela. (Image source: ABB)

Energy

ABB has implemented advanced controller technology for high-power rectifier systems at the Manganese Metal Company refinery in Mbombela, strengthening power stability at the facility

Located in South Africa’s Mpumalanga province, MMC holds a unique position in global markets as the only producer of high-grade electrolytic manganese metal outside China. It is also the world’s largest refinery of 99.9% selenium-free EMM. The company supplies more than 120 customers across 20 countries, with approximately 95% of its annual output exported for applications such as lithium-ion battery production, alloying, welding and electronics.

To safeguard operational continuity in a competitive international environment, MMC required a solution to counter power instability that had been placing strain on ageing transformers. ABB addressed this challenge by integrating its AC 800PEC high-performance controller with six MCR1000 high-power rectifier units. The controller is engineered for rapid and accurate responses to grid fluctuations, supporting high-speed control algorithms with cycle times as low as 100 microseconds for fast control loops.

The upgraded system is designed to ensure a more stable power flow to the manganese production plant, enhancing availability and supporting higher productivity levels. According to the customer, the advanced control platform has significantly reduced unplanned outages and improved overall operational reliability, resulting in more predictable production performance.

“We were faced with several critical challenges that affected our operations and potentially our market position,” said Teheli Morabe, chief operating officer, MMC.

“Technical constraints, particularly the use of older rectifier technology, resulted in trips whenever there was adverse weather and during electrical grid fluctuations. The plant’s continuous production demands meant that downtime was not an option, and so we had to resolve these issues without disrupting operations. ABB’s innovations not only addressed our immediate operational challenges but also established a foundation for long-term stability and competitiveness.”

“Our project with MMC is an example of ABB working in an unseen way yet making a significant positive impact to important customer operations,” said Ralph Burgener, Global Business Unit Manager for High-Power Rectifier, ABB’s Process Industries division.

“Power supply challenges exist the world over but are particularly well-known in South Africa. To be able to overcome that with automated, power control technologies brings a great deal of satisfaction to our teams as engineers. We are enabling this manganese plant to compete internationally, which aligns with ABB’s mission of engineered to outrun.”

Powering South Africa with solar energy (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Eritrea to get solar mini-grid system (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Construction

Caterpillar launches the new Cat 707 wide body truck.

Construction

Engineered for durability and high machine availability, the new Cat 707 wide body truck is built around a fully integrated Cat powertrain that combines a Cat C13 engine, Cat automatic transmission, and proprietary Cat axles

Designed to handle demanding haulage applications, the truck offers a maximum payload of 66 tonnes and is available in standard or heavy duty configurations, with body options of 40 m3 or 42 m3 to suit varying materials and site conditions.

Developed with Caterpillar’s rebuild focused design philosophy, the 707 wide body truck is intended to deliver consistent mechanical availability throughout its operating life while supporting a second lifecycle through cost effective rebuilds. This approach helps customers extend asset life and manage long term operating costs.

The new 707 wide body truck has been engineered, manufactured, and field tested using the latest technologies to ensure it is ready for work upon deployment. It is the first model in a new wide body truck product family that expands Caterpillar’s hauling systems portfolio.

“We have engineered our new wide body truck with a unique philosophy – it’s built to be rebuilt, offering consistent mechanical availability and longevity through a second lifecycle, which can help lower operating costs.” Angel Gonzalez, global product specialist at Caterpillar.

Performance and lifecycle efficiency

The Cat 707 can be configured with a 400 kW Cat C13B engine that meets China Nonroad Stage IV emissions standards, or a 358 kW Cat C13 engine that delivers U.S. EPA Tier 3 equivalent emissions. Both engine options are equipped with a high rated standard engine brake. Power is delivered through a six speed automatic transmission, with an optional integrated hydraulic retarder available for additional braking control.

To support reliability and uptime, the truck features proprietary Cat axles, integrated Cat powertrain controllers, and Cat designed wiring and electrical harnesses. Three levels of braking and retardation are available, including the engine brake, optional hydraulic retarder, and service and parking brakes. This combination improves downhill loaded control, enhances safety, and supports faster haul cycles.

The 707 wide body truck is designed for effective pass matching with Cat 986, 988, and 988 XE wheel loaders, as well as Cat 350, 374, and 395 excavators, helping to improve site productivity.

Operator comfort and training are supported through a left side operator seat and an optional right side instructor seat. The cab is mounted on a robust four point system and includes a standard falling object protective structure, with an optional rollover protective structure available. A reversing camera can be specified to improve maneuvering safety. Automatic shifting with simplified gear selection helps increase efficiency, while the hoist system delivers fast 20 second raise and lower cycle times to speed up material unloading.

Low operating and maintenance costs are supported by the integrated Cat powertrain mounted on a reinforced chassis. When combined with Cat Customer Value Agreements, customers can achieve higher uptime while maintaining reliable performance across multiple life cycles. Grouped service points reduce maintenance time, while a ground level engine shut off switch allows safe engine shutdown by stopping fuel delivery.

Parts commonality with other Cat machines, including the C13 engine, CX31RT transmission, and common cab, simplifies servicing and inventory management. LED lighting provides longer service life, brighter illumination, reduced power consumption, and improved resistance to vibration and moisture.

T

Babcock introduces new Volvo wheel loaders in South Africa

Generation 6 ESP.4 expands multi-purpose handling options with electric drive technology for growing seaside and river ports. (Image source: Konecranes)

Mining

The rebuilt Sandvik hydraulic hammer is ready for installation at site. (Image source: Sandvik Rock Processing)

Mining

Sandvik Rock Processing has finalised a comprehensive OEM-level refurbishment of a Sandvik BR3288i hydraulic breaker and a Sandvik BB8094R breaker boom for a leading gold mining operation in Ghana

The project restored a key component of the site’s primary crushing circuit, with the rebuild, reinstallation and commissioning delivering measurable gains in equipment availability and output. Ongoing quarterly inspections and technical support from the company’s Kumasi-based team continue to reinforce performance.

The refurbishment was carried out at Sandvik Rock Processing’s fully equipped workshop in Kumasi. The breaker and boom assembly are installed at the mine’s run-of-mine grizzly, where oversized rocks generated during blasting are reduced to prevent blockages and maintain smooth material flow into the crusher.

“This project restored a vital asset that plays a central role in the mine’s primary crushing circuit,” commented Amos Fordjour, senior service technician at Sandvik Rock Processing. “Our extensive rebuild has returned the machine to OEM performance standards, significantly improving the mine’s reliability and production continuity.”

After more than five years in operation, the equipment was scheduled for refurbishment. Work commenced on site, where the 11 tonne boom assembly was dismantled using the mine’s crane infrastructure before being transported over a three-hour journey to the Kumasi workshop.

“Once in the workshop, our technicians stripped the units completely - checking for critical components such as pins, bushings, cylinder seals and mounting brackets that required replacement,” remarked Fordjour. “The boom was sandblasted and inspected for cracks, the hydraulic cylinders were rebuilt and pressure-tested and the hammer was fully refurbished.”

Haqq Abdul Rahman, graduate technician at Sandvik Rock Processing, highlighted the importance of parts availability in reducing turnaround times. He explained that mines frequently face challenges with oversized rocks at the run-of-mine grizzly, and temporary mobile breakers often require considerably more time to handle the material.

“It was important that we controlled the turnaround time on this project so the mine could put the equipment back to work as soon as possible,” said Rahman. “This particular unit breaks oversized rocks much faster than the smaller mobile units that the mine had to rely on while this one was being refurbished.”

The Sandvik BB8094R breaker boom, rated at 55 kW input power, provides a maximum reach of 12.7 m, with nominal horizontal and vertical reaches of 9.8 m and 9 m respectively, and a full 360° swing capability. The 2.3 tonne Sandvik BR3288i hydraulic breaker incorporates an operating principle that optimises stroke length, blow energy and includes an idle blow protector, enabling adaptability across applications while enhancing hydraulic efficiency and operational safety.

Fordjour underscored the role of strict quality control procedures throughout the refurbishment.

“We follow strict operating procedures and standards in everything we do,” continued Rahman. “This includes using only genuine Sandvik parts which allows us to guarantee the quality of both the components and the workmanship.”

Following workshop completion, Sandvik Rock Processing teams returned to site for installation and commissioning. The three-week process required detailed coordination around crane usage, electrical integration, positioning and safety compliance.

“We work very closely with customers during removal, installation and commissioning,” Fordjour noted. “In this case, the mine provided the cranes and support equipment and we handled all the technical work; that collaboration is critical.”

Rahman explained that the restored boom and breaker now offer enhanced structural integrity, precise OEM clearances and improved swing performance, supporting efficient energy transfer and high twist resistance under demanding impact conditions.

“For the mine, the biggest impact is uptime and production,” said Rahman. “Without this breaker, their crushing circuit slows down considerably; now that it is back to full performance and production is consistent again.”

Post-commissioning support remains ongoing, with Sandvik Rock Processing conducting quarterly inspections to assess pins, seals and overall structural condition, while maintaining readiness for service interventions whenever required.

Glencore driving DRC's copper mining growth

Weir designates its upgraded Alrode facility as the global manufacturing centre for ENDURON Elite screens. (Image source: Weir)

Logistics

AD Ports Group and two UAE based investors will hold a combined 60% stake in the operating company, alongside Africa Ports Development LTD with 40%. (Image source: AD Ports Group)

Logistics

AD Ports Group has entered Africa Ports Development’s 30 year concession to develop and operate a new dry bulk terminal at the Port of Douala in the Republic of Cameroon, marking a further expansion of its African footprint

Under the agreed investment framework, AD Ports Group and two UAE based investors will hold a combined 60% stake in the operating company, alongside Africa Ports Development LTD with 40%. This structure translates into an effective economic interest of 51% for AD Ports Group.

Aligned with its ownership share, AD Ports Group’s portion of the phase 1 investment is projected at approximately AED 320 million, (approx. US$87mn). The first phase will deliver two berths and roughly 450 metres of quay wall, with an annual handling capacity of about 4 million tonnes of dry bulk commodities including clinker, gypsum, fertiliser and grain.

Construction is scheduled between 2026 and 2028 and will be undertaken in close coordination with the Port Authority of Douala to respond to sustained demand at Cameroon’s main maritime gateway.

Mohamed Eidha Al Menhali, Regional CEO - AD Ports Group, said, “This agreement represents a strategically important expansion of AD Ports Group’s presence in Africa and reinforces our commitment to developing high-impact maritime infrastructure in high-growth markets, in line with the vision of our wise leadership. The Douala dry bulk terminal will enhance trade resilience, support industrial development, and strengthen Cameroon’s role as a gateway to Central Africa.”

Al Menhali added: “Through our partnership with Africa Ports Development, we are combining local market expertise with AD Ports Group’s global capabilities in port development and operations to support the Port Authority of Douala’s plans to modernise and enhance Douala Port, enabling regional trade and long-term economic growth. We commend the Port Authority for the significant progress achieved in recent years, which has driven strong growth in Cameroon’s maritime sector, and we look forward to contributing further to its long-term development ambitions.”

Marc Tabchy, managing partner of Africa Ports Development, said,“We are honoured to bring this partnership to life with AD Ports Group, a global reference that shares our firm belief in this project, in Cameroon, and in the potential of the African continent. Building upon the opportunity provided by the Port Authority of Douala’s modernisation and specialisation initiatives, this collaboration establishes a strategic synergy combining our group’s ambition and regional depth with AD Ports Group’s operational excellence.”

Situated at the Port of Douala, Cameroon’s largest seaport and the primary entry point for bulk imports, the new terminal is expected to reinforce regional supply chains and improve the handling efficiency of essential cargo streams. The port also functions as a vital transit corridor for landlocked markets across Central Africa, and the project will benefit from established hinterland connections linking Douala to major industrial zones and regional trade routes.

The development forms part of AD Ports Group’s broader growth strategy across the continent, building on its existing operations and investments in Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Kenya, Tanzania, Angola and the Republic of the Congo, and strengthening its role as a key partner for trade, logistics and enabling infrastructure in Africa.

 
 

First low carbon copper anode shipment advances Lobito corridor and sustainable DRC to Europe supply chain. (Image source: Trafigura)

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Finance

Africa well positioned despite current global uncertainties (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Finance

The countries of sub-Saharan Africa are set to become more important as the global economy realigns in the face of wider geopolitical shifts, a new report suggests

South Africa, as one of the so-called BRICS nations, also stands to prosper.

The report, by Boston Consulting Group, suggests that global trade will show some resilience, and could grow 2.5% annually through to 2034 despite rising fragmentation.

According to the report, nations in the so-called ‘Rest of the world’ category — which includes all of sub-Saharan Africa, with the exception of South Africa — look set to gain overall on the back of strategic neutrality.

“These free agents, however, will become increasingly important in the future, both as markets and suppliers of goods and services,” the report notes.

While there are a wide range of trade scenarios, reflecting current volatility, small non-aligned countries appear to be relatively isolated from any potential negative fallout.

The BRICS+ nations — including South Africa, and countries that joined later, such as Egypt and Ethiopia — will also seek to expand relationships within the Global South.

“BRICS+ countries have been taking steps to collaborate with each other on trade, which they see as a driver of growth,” the report notes. But their approach to trade differs, with some negotiating deals with other groupings and some not.”

BRICS+ nations (excluding China) could see 3% growth with the rest of the world over the period as well as trade growth among themselves, it adds.

“Global trade isn’t retreating, it’s reorganising,” said Marc Gilbert, managing director and senior partner, Global Leader of the Center for Geopolitics, and a co-author of the report.

“Leaders who embed geopolitics in capital and strategic decision-making will be best positioned to navigate the next decade of change to secure resilience as well as growth.”

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Manufacturing

SANY opens global remanufacturing hub. (Image source: SANY)

Manufacturing

SANY Group has officially begun operations at its first global engineering machinery remanufacturing hub, the SANY Hunan-Hainan Intelligent Manufacturing Industrial Park

The launch marks a major step in SANY’s globalisation and sustainability strategy, with the company securing CNY100 million (US$14.27mn) in orders from clients in Southeast Asia and Africa on the opening day.

The Park represents China’s first industrial facility co-developed by a pilot free trade zone (FTZ) and a pilot free trade port, advancing cross-regional collaboration between Hunan and Hainan provinces. By leveraging both provinces’ industrial strengths and policy incentives, the Park is designed to support Chinese enterprises in expanding their international footprint.

Construction of the Park began in August 2023, covering approximately 10 hectares (150 mu). With a total investment of CNY600 million (US$85.62mn), it is expected to reach an annual output value of CNY750 million (US$107.02mn) when operating at full capacity.

Positioned as a regional remanufacturing hub and resource distribution platform, the Park focuses on the maintenance and remanufacturing of core engineering machinery components as well as second-hand equipment from domestic and international markets. The facility promotes the circular reuse of industrial resources, aligning with SANY’s commitment to sustainability.

Operating under the Hainan FTZ framework, eligible value-added processing activities enjoy tariff preferences, while remanufacturing operations under bonded supervision may qualify for corporate and personal income‑tax incentives. The Park benefits from the “Dual 15%” tax-incentive policy, receiving approval for outsourced processes to enjoy a 15% corporate income-tax reduction.

“The project represents a key strategic initiative for SANY to deepen its globalisation, digitalisation, and low-carbon transformation. Moving forward, SANY will continue to actively explore new models for remanufacturing, promote the circular reuse of industrial resources, and jointly advance the global engineering machinery industry's transition toward a greener, low-carbon future,” said Tang Xiuguo, chairman of SANY.

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