Ivan Zhakata

Government has suspended the export of all lithium concentrates and raw minerals with immediate effect.

Addressing journalists in Harare, Mines and Mining Development Minister Polite Kambamura said the suspension will remain in force until further notice and applies to all lithium concentrates and raw minerals, including consignments already in transit.

“The Government wishes to advise all stakeholders that Government has suspended export of all lithium concentrates and raw minerals with immediate effect until further notice,” he said.

“This suspension includes all minerals currently in transit.”

He directed the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) and all regulatory authorities to enforce the directive without exception.

The minister said the measure was taken in the national interest and is aimed at enhancing mineral accountability, promoting local beneficiation and maximising value retention within the country.

He said the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development will engage industry stakeholders in the near future to outline new expectations and the way forward.
Minister Kambamura also outlined mandatory requirements governing the export of all other minerals.

He said only mining companies holding valid mining titles and approved beneficiation plans will be authorised to export minerals, while agents and third-party traders are barred from exporting minerals on behalf of mining title holders.

The Minister said applicants for export permits must submit, in addition to other supporting documents, a recommendation letter from the relevant Provincial Mines Office confirming beneficiation capacity and compliance with ministry regulations and statutory requirements.

He said exporters were also required to declare the mineral composition of each consignment.

The minister said the ministry reserves the right to test export consignments at any time to verify the declared mineral composition and warned that non application will be processed without full compliance with the stipulated requirements.

“Any mineral exports not supported by valid export permits and complete documentation shall be denied clearance and confiscated to the State,” Minister Kambamura said.

He added that continuous use of an expired or exhausted export permit constitutes a serious offence that may result in withdrawal of future export permits and mining rights.

He said the measures are being implemented to enhance transparency in mineral value addition and beneficiation, ensure compliance with mining legislation and strengthen accountability in the exportation of Zimbabwe’s mineral resources.