Limpopo
Limpopo had South Africa's highest 2024 GDP growth (0.9%) driven by platinum and chrome mining—borders three countries with significant informal trade.
Limpopo recorded South Africa's highest GDP growth in 2024 (0.9%)—nearly double the national average—driven by mining expansion that dominates the provincial economy. Platinum, chrome, and other minerals from the Bushveld Igneous Complex make mining the primary driver of economic activity, with agriculture as secondary sector. The province borders Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Mozambique, creating cross-border trade flows and informal commerce that official statistics undercount. The incorporated former Bantustan of Venda and parts of Lebowa contribute to persistent rural poverty despite mining wealth—a classic resource curse where mineral extraction enriches capital-holders while surrounding communities see limited benefit. Polokwane anchors the urban economy, but most residents live in rural areas dependent on subsistence agriculture and remittances from family members working in Gauteng mines. The 2024 growth outperformance reflects mining commodity prices rather than structural economic transformation. By 2026, Limpopo's mining dependence creates vulnerability to global commodity cycles while the young population seeks opportunity in Gauteng rather than local development.