South Africa: SAPIA Chairperson Highlights Economic Challenges in 2009

Mr. James Seutloadi, Chairman of Chevron South Africa (Pty) Limited, has been elected as the Chairperson of the South African Petroleum Industry Association (SAPIA) for the year 2009.

He succeeds Mr. Mncedi Douglas Zulu, Sales and Operations Manager of Shell South Africa Energy (Pty) Limited, and is the fifteenth industry leader to chair the association since its establishment in July 1994. Mr. Maurice
Radebe, Managing Director, Sasol Oil (Pty) Limited, is the new Vice-Chairperson of SAPIA.

Mr. Seutloadi said he was honoured to accept the position and looked forward to working with other industry leaders to deliver petroleum products to the South African economy at worldcompetitive prices."It is clear that 2009 brings with it some daunting challenges: national elections which will result in a new administration, fluctuating crude oil prices and the world economic downturn, which to some extend will have a knock-on effect on emerging market economies, including South Africa. We certainly expect a challenging year for South Africa." said Mr. Seutloadi. "The new economic and political landscape demands that we develop morefocused goals and strategies to best position our industry to seize opportunities when they arise."

Mr. Seutloadi underlined the need for key industry leaders and government to work together to develop a more cohesive approach on matters of interest to everyone, such as energy security. "We would also need to focus on
priorities so as to ensure security of supply of liquid fuels in the period ahead."

He said SAPIA had much to be proud of, including its members’ work in the area of skills development and Black Economic Empowerment.

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