BHP woos South Africa in pursuit of $39bn Anglo takeover

BHP Group has deployed a team of senior executives to South Africa as the world’s largest miner ramps up efforts to win over government officials, regulators and local shareholders, all of whom could yet determine the outcome of its proposed tie-up with rival Anglo American. The executives have already begun conversations with key stakeholders, focusing on explaining the detail of the existing $39-billion proposal – currently back on the drawing board after it was rapidly rejected by its target – and its benefits, according to people familiar with the matter.