Today, Sasol Nitro inaugurated its new limestone ammonium nitrate (LAN) granulation plant in Secunda, Mpumalanga. The R 1 billion state-of-the-art plant has a production capacity of 400 000 tons per annum, and was designed to improve the quality of LAN fertiliser granules produced using the latest energy efficiency and waste minimization technologies.

"Sasol's investment in this plant will ensure more high quality product is made available to meet growing industry demand and, importantly, supports the company’s continued investment in the South African agriculture industry. A strong agricultural sector is critical in the delivery of government's broader developmental objectives and Sasol is proud to be contributing to the industry's growth," said André de Ruyter, Senior Group Executive, Global Chemicals and North American Operations, Sasol.

“This is a significant milestone for Sasol Nitro. Our new plant represents the best technology can offer for the production of LAN fertiliser granules, ensuring customers receive only top-quality products through stream-lined and customer-centric service,” said Marius Brand, Managing Director, Sasol Nitro.

Sasol Nitro is the leading manufacturer of LAN and ammonium sulphate fertilisers in South Africa. The LAN and ammonium sulphate fertilisers are complemented by the company’s range of ammonium nitrate- and ammonium sulphate-based NPK (nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium) fertiliser blends, both in liquid and granular form. Sasol Nitro also markets a range of speciality fertilisers.

Sasol Nitro recently commissioned a Customer Contact Centre to assist customers with quotations, orders, credit applications, scheduling, account queries and technical support. Sasol Nitro’s FertExTM electronic fertiliser recommendation program further supports customers with the latest local and international research information.

Granules produced by the new plant have harder physical properties, enhancing shelf life and narrowing particle size distribution. These product qualities improve planter dosing accuracy, enhancing the value proposition of Sasol Nitro’s LAN customers.

“We are proud of our investment in the local agricultural industry and are committed to promote the South African agriculture industry through investment and capacity building,” said Brand.

Sasol increased its capital expenditure in South Africa by 14% in the past financial year to R18.8 billion, which represents approximately 70% of total capital expenditure. As part of the company’s on-going investment in South Africa, Sasol will invest R200 million in the Govan Mbeki Municipality in Mpumalanga and Metsimaholo Municipality to enhance the sustainable development of the communities in both regions, over and above Sasol’s existing social investment.

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