CHROME PROCESSING
Transforming raw materials into premium chrome concentrate through innovative processing and strategic partnerships
OUR CHROME OPERATIONS
From waste material acquisition to premium chrome concentrate production and sales
Raw Material Acquisition
Strategic partnerships with mining companies to acquire raw materials that would otherwise be considered waste. We source ROM (Run of Mine) chrome ore from various mines and dumps located around Northwest Province, creating value where none existed before.
Chrome Ore Beneficiation
Advanced processing plant in Rustenburg transforms ROM into high-grade chrome concentrate. Our facility processes raw material into final product with capacity to produce an average of 1000MT weekly, with plans to enhance output to larger quantities.
Raw Material Transportation
Strategic partnerships with local transporters ensure efficient delivery of raw material from mine to processing plant. Our logistics network covers multiple mine sites within 70-120km radius, ensuring consistent supply to our Rustenburg facility.
Chrome Concentrate Sales
Direct supply of quality chrome concentrate to clients from our processing site. As a JIT (Just-In-Time) supplier, we offer competitive pricing by selling directly from source, providing clients with cost advantages over traditional big mining houses.
Dump Site Development
Exclusive offtake agreements with local communities for dumps left by old mining operations. Plans to deploy yellow machines on dump sites to prepare raw material before trucking to processing site, ensuring consistency in feed supplies.
Mine Acquisition Strategy
Actively searching for our own mine to provide consistent supply of raw materials and ensure future security as an asset. This long-term vision demonstrates our commitment to establishing a secure and reliable supply chain for sustainable growth.
TMI STRENGTHS
What makes Tlotlo Mfolwe Trading a trusted partner in the chrome industry
Waste to Value Innovation
Innovative and efficient processes transform raw materials that would otherwise be waste into valuable finished chrome products
Rustenburg Processing Plant
State-of-the-art processing facility in Rustenburg beneficiates ROM into high-grade chrome concentrate
Strategic Location
Multiple raw material sources from mines and dumps within 70-120km radius in Northwest Province
Experienced Management
Combined 40+ years of expertise across legal, mining, property, financial, marketing, sales, and engineering sectors
Strategic Partnerships
Strong alliances with local and international industry players, plus partnerships with local transporters and communities
Market Understanding
Deep knowledge of commodity markets with constant trend monitoring and competitive advantage in direct-from-source supply
Competitive Advantage
While the chrome market is controlled by big mining houses, TMI has established itself as the go-to supplier for clients who prefer to buy products from source at more competitive prices. Big mining houses don't allow clients to buy locally as it reduces their profit margins - this becomes TMI's winning advantage.
- Direct from source pricing advantage
- Flexible supply arrangements
- Strong client relationships
- Reliable supply chain network
Market Opportunities
Chrome is one of the most sought-after minerals globally. South Africa has huge deposits, making it an ideal sourcing location for global markets. The demand for chrome consistently exceeds supply, creating strong market opportunities.
- Limited number of chrome processing plants in the market
- Existing plants lack capacity to meet client demand
- Big mining houses reducing production levels increases prices
Future Security
TMI is actively pursuing mine acquisition to ensure long-term supply consistency and asset security. This strategic vision includes exclusive offtake agreements and on-site preparation capabilities.
- Exclusive dump site offtake with local communities
- Plans for yellow machines on dump sites
- Consistent feed supply to processing plant
OPERATIONAL CHALLENGES
Understanding and addressing the challenges in chrome processing operations
Community Relations
Challenge: Raw material procurement from mines in rural areas can be affected by community strikes, causing delivery delays and raw material shortages at the processing plant.
Solution: Building strong relationships with local communities and pursuing exclusive offtake agreements to ensure consistent supply.
Power Supply
Challenge: Eskom load shedding stages force mines without backup generators to stop operations completely until power is restored, impacting raw material supply.
Solution: Diversifying supplier base across multiple mines and maintaining strategic raw material inventory at the processing plant.
Logistics Coordination
Challenge: Managing transportation from multiple mine sites (70-120km radius) requires careful coordination to maintain consistent feed to the processing plant.
Solution: Strategic partnerships with local transporters and optimized logistics planning to ensure reliable delivery schedules.
Commitment to Excellence
Despite operational challenges, TMI maintains its commitment to delivering quality chrome products on time. Our experienced management team constantly monitors market trends and adapts strategies to ensure consistent supply to our clients.
Quality Assurance
Consistent quality control throughout the beneficiation process
Reliable Delivery
JIT supply model ensures timely delivery to clients
Strong Relationships
Building trust with suppliers, clients, and communities
