Zimbabwe bans all raw mineral exports with immediate effect

Zimbabwe Freezes Export of Raw Minerals

Zimbabwe has imposed an immediate freeze on the export of all raw minerals and lithium concentrate, as announced by the Mines Ministry on Wed, Oct 18, 2023. This measure aims to enhance state control over resources critical to global clean-energy and defense industries.

The government anticipates cooperation from the mining industry regarding this policy, which has been enacted in the national interest. The ban applies to all raw minerals already in transit and will remain effective until further notice.

This decision aligns with a global trend where nations are increasingly securing rare earths and strategic minerals crucial for smartphones, green energy systems, and military equipment. Many producing countries are tightening controls over their supply chains.

The Zimbabwean government intends to ensure transparency, in-country value addition, and beneficiation in mineral exports. Initially, the ban on lithium concentrates was planned for January 2027 to encourage local processing. Zimbabwe, which holds Africa's largest lithium reserves, currently exports much of its production to China for refining. Mining contributes 14.3% to Zimbabwe's GDP.

Based on reporting by Africanews.