Of all industrial sectors, it is the mining sector that requires ongoing investment at a magnitude that dwarfs investment in most other sectors. Because internal savings are insufficient to fund mining, foreign investment is a must. Mineral Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe is having to walk a tightrope and industry effort to remain profitable is currently very intense. Applying pressure ahead of Mining Charter III’s October/November deadline are the weight of the 10% free carry and empowerment goalposts that have once again changed.