The Zimbabwe government has announced an immediate ban on the export of lithium concentrates and raw minerals in a move aimed at boosting local value addition and tightening oversight of the mining sector.
Mines and Mining Development Minister Polite Kambamura said the suspension takes effect immediately and will remain in place until further notice.
The directive also covers consignments already in transit.
According to the minister, the decision is intended to improve mineral accountability, promote local beneficiation, and ensure the country retains greater value from its natural resources.
He directed the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority and the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe, along with other regulatory bodies, to strictly enforce the suspension.
New export conditions
The government also introduced tighter requirements for the export of other minerals:
- Only companies with valid mining titles and approved beneficiation plans may export.
- Third-party agents are barred from exporting on behalf of title holders.
- Export permit applications must include recommendations from Provincial Mines Offices confirming compliance and beneficiation capacity.
- Exporters must declare the mineral composition of each shipment.
- Authorities reserve the right to test consignments at any time.
Kambamura warned that shipments lacking proper permits or documentation will be denied clearance and confiscated, while misuse of export permits could lead to the withdrawal of mining rights.
Strategic move amid global lithium demand
Zimbabwe holds some of Africa’s largest lithium deposits, a mineral crucial for electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy storage.
The policy shift reflects a broader push by resource-rich nations to process minerals domestically rather than export raw materials.
Officials said consultations with industry stakeholders will follow to outline compliance expectations and implementation guidelines.
