This move comes unexpectedly as SA represents a significant market for Shell, which has been a business staple in the country for over a century.

The departure is reportedly due to a dispute with Thebe Investment Corporation, Shell's Black Economic Empowerment partner, regarding the valuation of Thebe's share in Shell Downstream SA.

SAFTU's Spokesperson, Trevor Shaku, highlighted the broader implications of such corporate decisions, stating, "There's a recurring pattern where larger corporations undermine the value of smaller entities, which can be seen as an attempt to shortchange them.

“This issue is primarily for the companies to resolve. However, the state's intervention is crucial to ensure that, should Shell exit, there is a concerted effort to broaden the ownership of liquid energies and enhance public control over daily fuel supplies that are vital to the citizens."

--SABC--