Another International Giant Quits South Africa

Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright will leave South Africa, with its local division becoming an independent entity.

The South African business will become an independent law firm on March 31st 2026, following a structured transition.

In 2011, Norton Rose combined with Canadian law firm Ogilvy Renault and South African firm Deneys Reitz to create Norton Rose Fulbright. 

The merger created a Top 10 global legal practice with 38 offices and 2,500 legal staff. 

With the incoming separation, Brent Botha, the current Chief Executive Officer of Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa, will lead the new independent local firm.

Norton Rose Fulbright said that the transition is set to mark the next growth phase of the South African firm as it builds on its reputation. 

This firm will continue to advise clients across South Africa, the African continent, and globally. 

It plans to help international clients invest in Africa, as well as African clients expand abroad. 

“This change represents a natural evolution for both firms as the dynamics of international markets and client needs progress worldwide,” said Peter Scott, Co-Global Managing Partner of Norton Rose Fulbright.

“We thank our South African colleagues for their contributions to our shared success and will support them through this transition.”

Botha added that the company looks forward to building upon its 100-year-old legacy in South Africa and across Africa.

“We are proud of our heritage within Norton Rose Fulbright and look forward to working with the firm and other global partners, wherever our clients operate,” said Botha.

Norton Rose Fulbright becomes one of several international companies that have exited or cut back their operations in South Africa.

This includes Anglo American unbundling its platinum business, now known as Valterra Platinum.

International banks HSBC and BNP Paribas have also exited the local market, while trading giant IG Group has also withdrawn from Africa.

Consulting giant Bain & Company will also leave South Africa following the fallout over its involvement in state capture.

Energy giant Shell is also looking to sell its downstream business in South Africa, which includes its hundreds of petrol stations.