The government of Zimbabwe has implemented a suspension on the export of all raw minerals, which includes significant resources like lithium concentrates, ahead of its previously scheduled implementation date in 2027. This decision was communicated through a circular by Mines Minister Polite Kambamura, who emphasized that the suspension aims at enhancing local mineral processing rather than allowing raw materials to be exported. The measure is set to be effective immediately and bars not only new exports but also minerals that are currently in transit out of the country.

The rationale behind this sudden policy shift appears to be linked to concerns over rampant illegal mining and mineral leakages, particularly with precious minerals such as lithium and gold. By halting exports, the government intends to tackle these issues while promoting its beneficiation agenda, which seeks to increase the value addition of minerals before they are sent abroad. This move is seen as a strategic effort to retain more economic value within the country by encouraging local processing and reducing the illicit extraction that has been reported.

Stakeholders in the mining industry are urged to comply with the new regulations, with the government asserting its commitment to ensuring transparency and fairness in the mining sector. As Zimbabwe possesses some of the world’s largest deposits of lithium, the suspension is likely to impact both local and international markets as it could reshape supply chains and influence global lithium prices, particularly in light of rising demand for electric vehicle components.