Zimbabwe govt bans lithium exports

The government of Zimbabwe has announced an immediate suspension on the export of all raw minerals and lithium concentrates, a measure aimed at strengthening accountability and ensuring greater value retention within the country. The directive was issued this morning by Polite Kambamura, the Minister of Mines.

According to Minister Kambamura, the suspension applies to all raw minerals, including those already in transit, and will remain in effect "until further notice." He stressed that only mining companies with valid mining titles and approved beneficiation facilities will be authorised to export minerals. Agents and third-party traders will no longer be permitted to export on behalf of mining title holders.

"All stakeholders are advised that ZIMRA, MMCZ and other regulatory authorities will strictly enforce these requirements," Kambamura said. "Any mineral exports not supported by valid export permits and complete documentation shall be denied clearance. Continued use of an expired or already exhausted export permit is a serious offence that warrants withdrawal of the export permit and mining title. Government reiterates that these measures are being implemented in the national interest to enhance mineral accountability, promote beneficiation and maximise value retention within Zimbabwe."

Under the new requirements, export permit applications must include a recommendation letter from the relevant Provincial Mining Office confirming beneficiation capacity and compliance with Ministry regulations and statutory requirements. Applicants are also required to declare the mineral composition of each export consignment.

The government has framed these measures as critical for promoting beneficiation of minerals locally, safeguarding national revenue, and ensuring that Zimbabwe derives maximum economic benefit from its natural resources.