New Fracking Regulations Proposed in South Africa

South Africa has proposed new rules for the regulation of hydraulic fracturing and the government signalled it was positive on starting shale gas exploration.

Last year, the country lifted a moratorium on shale gas exploration in its Karoo region.

"Not only does the potential of shale gas exploration and exploitation provide an opportunity for us to begin production of our own fuel, but it also marks the beginning of the reindustrialization of the South African economy," Mineral Resources Minister Susan Shabangu said in a statement.

"By embarking on this process presented by hydraulic fracturing for the production of shale gas, we bring the country a step closer to the achievement of our objectives," she said.