Its web page proclaims that "PetroSA is proud to be SA’s national oil company". This is accompanied by a few more lies giving the impression that the state owns a worthy producer of petroleum, when the truth is the exact opposite. On that page you also get this gem: "Our talent for innovation is recognised globally." If you didn’t notice the few other items populating the landing page, you’d be left with the impression that the government owns a strategic asset through which it can ensure a consistent and reliable supply of fuel. A closer look would quickly disabuse you of this lofty notion. The annual report highlighted on the right-hand side of the page is that of financial 2017. To find the current annual report you have to search deeper. The last media statement was in late 2017. That’s because PetroSA is long dead. It has no news. It has no business. It is fast running out of feedstock to supply its gas-to-liquid plant at Mossel Bay. Come July 2020, the plant will be a white el...

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.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.