The South African mining industry is facing another challenging year with slower than expected economic growth, a prolonged and continuing downswing in commodity prices, an increase in short-term volatility, increased pressure on operating models, and regulatory uncertainty. Adding to these challenges is the increased difficulty in raising capital due to a loss of confidence by investors. However, this situation is not unique to South Africa, with mining companies the world over facing the same challenges.
“It is at times like these that trade exhibitions and face-to-face interaction with customers becomes even more important in order to ensure business survival,” says Gary Corin, Managing Director of Specialised Exhibitions Montgomery, organisers of Electra Mining Africa. “Local mining, industrial and power generation companies need to find solutions that are cost effective, reduce operational spend and focus on streamlining operations for maximum benefit. That’s why Electra Mining Africa will be so important this year. Visitors will be able to source new products, equipment, machinery and the latest systems and services which will address these operational and business needs.”
With over 850 exhibitors, 38,000m² of indoor/outdoor exhibition space and an anticipated 35,000 visitors, Electra Mining Africa is the biggest mining, industrial, machine tools, electrical and power trade show in Southern Africa. It is ranked as one of the world’s largest mining shows. A premier networking event, it will add real value to an industry looking for cost-effective, innovative solutions. It takes place from 12-16 September at the Expo Centre in Johannesburg, providing the local mining and related industries with a valuable platform for engagement, collaboration, interaction and networking.
Unveiling innovative solutions, local and international exhibitors will be showcasing a broad range of products and their latest technology developments. Visitors will benefit from the interaction offered through daily live demonstrations and simulation booths at this world-class trade exhibition. International Pavilions have been confirmed for China, France, UK and Turkey. Other internationals are from Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Sweden, Singapore, Taiwan, Italy, Russia, USA, India, Netherlands, Australia, Korea, Canada, Japan and Chile.
PowerEx adds electric power and energy showcase
PowerEx is a new show for 2016, co-locating with Electra Mining Africa. An electric power and energy showcase, it will focus on power generation, transmission and distribution, application and renewable energy.
“We believe there is beneficial synergy between the new PowerEx trade show and Electra Mining Africa,” says Corin. “Energy-intensive mining operations are under continued pressure to reduce dependence on traditional energy resources and decrease the significant draw on the country’s electricity grid infrastructure. Access to reliable and cost-effective forms of energy is a strategic priority for the global mining sector and the industry is increasingly looking at alternatives such as solar, wind and other renewable energy technologies. PowerEx will be offering solutions to address this.”
Leading industry association support
Electra Mining Africa has the support of leading industry associations including the South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM), South African Institute of Mechanical Engineers (SAIMechE), Women in Mining South Africa (WIMSA), Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), Lifting Equipment Engineering Association of South Africa (LEEASA), South African Fluid Power Association (SAFPA) and the South African Capital Equipment Export Council (SACEEC).
“We are delighted to partner with these influential and trusted industry associations,” says Corin. “We appreciate their support and we look forward to their various activities and interactions at this year’s Electra Mining Africa.”
SAIMM, WIMSA and LEEASA will be hosting informative and topical conferences at Electra Mining Africa. There will also be a SADC Conference focusing on opportunities in Africa. The conferences will enable the various stakeholders to hold important conversations about future opportunity and development in the mining, industrial and power generation industries. Although a tough market now, the cycle will turn and stakeholders remain optimistic and see potential for a future upswing and growth.
The South African Capital Equipment Export Council (SACEEC) will be facilitating an Inward Buying Mission to coincide with Electra Mining Africa which will assist mining and related companies from Chile, Peru and the Netherlands to attend the show. SACEEC will have two stands at Electra Mining Africa where they will be promoting localisation through their cluster work and also promoting SACEEC and its members.
Free to attend seminars
For the first time ever, Electra Mining Africa will offer free-to-attend seminars. These will be held in association with SAIMechE. Running alongside the show, the seminars will address various topics including the latest technologies and cutting-edge solutions helping delegates stay ahead of the pack and run sustainable, productive operations. The seminars will provide an excellent learning platform with industry specialists sharing their knowledge and expertise.
“Many professionals visiting the show will use Electra Mining Africa to network, exchange ideas, share information and develop partnerships,” concludes Corin.
Show organisers Specialised Exhibitions Montgomery is a member of the prestigious Montgomery Group, one of the most widely respected exhibition companies in the world with trade shows, consumer shows and specialist projects currently spanning Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia.
For visitor pre-registration, go to www.electramining.co.za or for further information contact Leatitia van Straten at email leatitiavs@specialised.com