Wallace Ruzvidzo-Herald Reporter

GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its ban on the export of all raw minerals, clarifying that this restriction applies all minerals, not just lithium concentrates.

In addition, the Government highlighted that the suspension, which came into effect last week, was indefinite.

The decision reflects President Mnangagwa’s aspiration that the nation’s abundance of natural resources should serve the interests of all its people.

The focus is shifting from simple extraction to enhancing industrial development and facilitating economic transformation.

In a recent statement, Mines and Mining Development Minister Dr Polite Kambamura said the Government, through his ministry, was dedicated to promoting transparency, enhancing domestic value addition and beneficiation and ensuring compliance and accountability in the export of Zimbabwe’s mineral resources.

“The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development wishes to advise all stakeholders that Government has suspended export of all raw minerals and lithium concentrates with immediate effect until further notice.

“This suspension includes all minerals currently in transit. To this effect, ZIMRA, MMCZ and regulators are advised to observe the suspension without exception,” he said.

Minister Kambamura delineated the new export regulations, specifying that only mining companies with valid mining titles and sanctioned beneficiation plants will be permitted to export minerals.

“Agents and third-party traders are not authorised to export minerals on behalf of mining title holders,” he said.

“In addition to other supporting documents for export permit applications, applicants must also attach a recommendation letter from the relevant provincial mining office, clearly stating beneficiation capacity, compliance status with ministry regulations and statutory requirements,” he said.

Minister Kambamura said applicants are required to disclose the mineral composition of each shipment, and his ministry will perform verification tests at any time.

The use of an expired or depleted export permit is considered a serious violation that can lead to the revocation of both export permits and mining titles.

“All stakeholders are advised that ZIMRA, MMCZ, and other regulatory authorities will strictly enforce these requirements.

“Any mineral exports not supported by valid export permits and complete documentation shall be denied clearance,” he said.

This ban aims to expedite the creation of beneficiation plants, generate employment opportunities and establish Zimbabwe as a frontrunner in the global shift towards green energy.

With significant reserves of essential minerals like lithium, nickel and graphite, local processing will allow the country to harness greater value from the increasing demand for battery materials.

“The ministry will continue engaging stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation of these measures and to support compliant operators,” said Minister Kambamura.

Mining has emerged as a foundational element of the country’s economy during the Second Republic, experiencing remarkable growth since 2017, rising from US$2,7 billion to US$6,5 billion last year and projected to surpass US$7 billion this year.

The growth will be driven mainly by gold, platinum group metals (PGMs), lithium and chrome.

This sector contributes approximately 12 percent to Gross Domestic Product and accounts for more than 80 percent of the country’s export earnings, highlighting its vital importance in propelling Zimbabwe toward achieving an upper-middle-income status by 2030.