Are the Guptas trying to steal back Optimum?
It’s well over three years since Optimum Coal Mine was placed into business rescue. Now, new concerns about possible Gupta influence may slow proceedings further
16 September 2021 - 05:00
Once a national asset, the embattled Optimum Coal Mine is still on an arduous journey to revival — despite being in business rescue, along with several other Gupta-linked entities, since February 2018.
Historically, Optimum supplied Eskom’s adjacent Hendrina power station with coal by conveyor belt, while an entitlement at the Richards Bay Coal Terminal facilitated exports of up to 6.5Mt of coal a year. That’s an especially valuable concession now, with export coal prices at their highest level in 13 years...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.