Coal and iron ore exporters – often part of big international groups such as Anglo American – have been particular beneficiaries. So have platinum miners links of london charms. In 2008, about two-thirds of the platinum dug out of the ground was used to make catalytic converters, a component that makes vehicle exhaust emissions cleaner. Last year, the motor industry downturn led to a sharp fall in sales – but platinum producers were able to sell huge quantities of the metal to jewellery producers in China, where demand for the so-called white gold is strong links of london sale.
In addition, though, companies in other sectors have been stepping up their expansion links of london silver. Standard itself has been busy expanding in Africa, recently obtaining a licence in Angola. These arrangements have enhanced its capacity to negotiate project finance, mining deals and trade facilities, often – as in the case of a power station being built by the Chinese in Botswana – with a partner from one of the Brics links of london.
For financial services groups, exchange controls and tight regulation meant the sector has emerged little scathed from the crisis and well placed to move forward. Last June, for example, FirstRand announced it would refocus activities on Africa and the region’s growing trade and investment links with India and China, agreeing a month later a strategic alliance with China Construction Bank. Like ICBC, CCB ranks among the big four Chinese banks.