HJS Emission Technology South Africa (SA), a branch of HJS Emission Technology GmbH & Co. KG, a global leader in advanced on-road, off-road, mining and maritime emission control solutions, has taken a significant step toward expanding its international mining footprint by acquiring the emission and exhaust system solutions divisions of John Ratcliffe, a respected name in the Southern African filtration industry with over 52 years of operational excellence.

HJS Emission Technology GmbH & Co. KG has acquired the majority shares in HJS Emission Technology SA, reinforcing its commitment to delivering world-class German engineering and emission control technologies to one of the world’s most dynamic mining regions.

“This transaction marks a milestone in HJS’s international growth strategy,” said HJS Emission Technology GmbH & Co. KG CEO Robin Trompetter. “With South Africa becoming a central hub for mining operations in the region, this acquisition provides us with a strategic base to start serving the global mining market more effectively.”

German Engineering for Global Mining Challenges

HJS Emission Technology SA, in its new role as the OEM and comprehensive service provider, will serve as the mining hub for the entire HJS Group, driving innovation and compliance in emission technologies from a strong South African base. This move brings best-in-class German emission technology directly to the challenging mining conditions across Africa and beyond, ensuring that clients benefit from both cutting-edge solutions with its unique patents and deep-rooted local expertise.

The acquisition is particularly timely, as South Africa’s Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) enforces new Occupational Exposure Limits for emissions in mining operations, effective June 26, 2025. HJS SA’s product offerings are designed to address these limits head-on, providing mining companies with proven, high-performance solutions that both ensure compliance and enhance worker safety.

“We welcome the legislation introduced by the Department,” said HJS Emission Technology SA MD André Robberts. “It reflects years of research by the DMPR into the dangers of emissions in mining and the work we have been doing over the last 11 years to address this life-threatening issue. With HJS technology and John Ratcliffe’s legacy in emission filtration, we are positioned to help mining companies transition smoothly into compliance while protecting the lives of their workers. We are ready to assist mines by not only window dressing, but truly answering to these regulations and saving lives in the process.”

Local Impact, Global Reach

Beyond compliance and innovation, this acquisition is a testament to the importance of foreign investment in South Africa, echoing President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent call he made during his visit to the US, to international investors. HJS is answering that call, not only by investing capital but by committing to job creation, community-based manufacturing, field servicing, and upskilling of local workforces near mining operations.

“We believe that sustainable business starts with people,” said  HJS Emission Technology GmbH & Co. KG Sales Director Dirk Maiworm. “Through our on-the-ground operations in mining regions, we aim to uplift communities by providing technical training, job opportunities, and long-term career paths for local communities.”

With this acquisition, HJS Emission Technology SA affirms its long-term commitment to innovation, regulatory compliance and local empowerment. The integration of John Ratcliffe’s experience with HJS’s global capabilities establishes a powerhouse poised to lead the mining sector into a cleaner, safer future.

Clean air is our mission!