BHP’s pursuit of Anglo American has a major obstacle: South Africa

The De Beers owner is a long-standing jewel in the African' state’s economic crown – it would be a ‘big blow’ to see it sold off

The world’s largest mining company has a problem.

Australia’s BHP has set out its intentions to snap up rival miner Anglo American in a multibillion-pound deal which would reshape the global industry. Its proposed £31bn takeover plan has already been rebuffed as a lowball offer which undervalues the company. But Anglo’s deep roots in South Africa could be a far more sensitive issue to address.