By Mzukisi Kota, Mlungisi Mahlangu, Jason van der Poel (Partners), Kiera Bracher, Sabeeha Loonat & Junaid Nyker (Associates) from Webber Wentzel

2025 highlighted key trends signalling a fundamental reset in South Africa’s electricity sector, with 2026 expected to be the year in which many of these reforms begin to take practical effect. With market rules nearing finalisation, infrastructure procurement advancing and new technologies gaining prominence, 2026 will test how well the sector can move from preparation to implementation.

The uptick in local and foreign mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity in South Africa, as well as the successful hosting of the G20 Summit, bode well for the country’s investment landscape, says Tamela Corporate Finance Executive, Kgolo Qwelane.

By Rhys Evans, Managing Director at ALCO-Safe

South Africa has one of the highest levels of alcohol consumption per capita in the world, and our government has long used sin tax as a way to tackle the problem. By steadily raising the price of alcohol, the aim is twofold: discourage excessive drinking and generate revenue for public health. But while the intention is clear, the reality is more complicated. As prices climb, demand for cheaper alternatives has surged. This has created fertile ground for the illicit alcohol trade, a shadow market that brings its own dangers, not just for public health but also for workplace safety in high-risk industries such as mining, construction, and transport.

By De Wet Joubert, Operations and Strategic Projects Director, RS South Africa

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a passing trend; it is reshaping industrial operations at every level. Nowhere is this transformation more visible than in the maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) supply chain, where AI is driving efficiency, predictive insight, and smarter decision-making.

By Andrew Bahlmann, Chief Executive, Corporate and Advisory, Deal Leaders International

Copper has emerged as the premier strategic metal in mining M&A dialogue. Forecasts suggest copper demand could rise by roughly 50% by 2040, while supply could lag potentially creating structural tightness in the market. This dynamic incentivise major producers to secure long-life copper assets through deals.