Zim Enacts Mineral Export Ban to Boost Local Value

By Emelda Jinya

Zimbabwe has suspended the export of all raw minerals and lithium concentrates, a move the government says is aimed at boosting local processing and curbing illegal mineral flows.

In a statement, the Ministry of Mines and Mining development announced that no raw minerals or lithium concentrates may be exported until further notice. The ban applies to all shipments, including those already in transit.

Authorities say only mining companies with valid titles and approved beneficiation plants will be allowed to export processed minerals. Agents or third-party traders are no longer permitted to export on behalf of licence holders.

Export permit applications must now include a recommendation from the relevant Provincial Mining Office confirming beneficiation capacity and compliance, as well as a declaration of mineral composition for each consignment. The Ministry says it reserves the right to conduct verification tests, and exports without valid permits will be blocked.

Using an expired permit is now classified as a serious offence that could result in cancellation of both the export permit and the mining title.

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority and the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe are expected to enforce the new measures. The Ministry says it will engage industry stakeholders soon to clarify implementation.

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