Africazine:
Zimbabwe has enacted an immediate ban on the export of lithium concentrates and raw minerals.
This decision aims to compel mining companies to establish processing facilities within the country. Mines Minister Polite Kambamura announced the ban during a press conference in Harare, emphasizing that it will remain in effect until further notice.
Zimbabwe’s Strategic Move to Boost Local Processing
Zimbabwe is rapidly becoming a key player in the lithium market, supplying significant quantities to Chinese refineries. Major investments from companies like Chengxin Lithium Group, Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt, and Sinomine Resource Group have fueled this growth. The government is now taking steps to ensure that the economic benefits of these resources are maximized through local processing.
The country is home to some of Africa’s largest lithium reserves, with resources estimated at 126 million tons. This vast potential positions Zimbabwe as one of the world’s leading lithium producers, making the export ban a strategic move to enhance domestic capabilities.
Zimbabwe: Key figures on lithium resources
- 126 million tons
Future Directions for Zimbabwe’s Mining Sector
- The export ban will remain until miners comply with government regulations.
- Plans to prohibit lithium concentrate exports by 2027 are still in place.
- Efforts will continue to encourage foreign mining enterprises to establish local refining operations.
Zimbabwe’s export ban on lithium aims to transform its mining landscape and enhance local economic benefits.
