Sinomine in talks with Zimbabwe to resume lithium exports

Sinomine Resource Group, the Chinese mining and resource development firm, has confirmed ongoing discussions with Zimbabwean authorities as it seeks approval to resume exports of lithium from its operations in the country, days after Harare imposed a sweeping ban on raw mineral shipments.

Sinomine told investors via a platform affiliated with the Shenzhen Stock Exchange that it is in communication with government officials over a new export application, following last month's decision by Zimbabwe to halt exports of lithium concentrates and all other raw mineral products.

Zimbabwe's export ban was announced in late February by the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, citing persistent malpractice in the sector and a drive to boost in‑country value addition. Under the new policy, exports of unprocessed minerals — including spodumene lithium concentrate — have been suspended with immediate effect until further notice.

The move is part of a broader strategy by Harare to encourage mining firms to establish processing facilities locally, rather than shipping raw ore overseas. Zimbabwe holds significant lithium reserves and has rapidly emerged as a key supplier of the battery metal, with much of the concentrate previously exported to China.

Sinomine, which owns and operates the Bikita mine — one of Africa's largest lithium producers — said the ban has had limited impact on its operations so far. However, resuming exports under a new permit would be crucial for maintaining supply chain relationships and investor confidence, especially in a tight global lithium market.

Chinese mining firms have been significant players in Zimbabwe's lithium boom, investing heavily in both mining and downstream processing projects. Some companies are already scaling up efforts to build refining and processing plants inside the country to comply with government directives.

Sinomine's discussions with Zimbabwean authorities are closely watched by industry analysts, as they may set a precedent for how mining companies adapt to the country's more assertive resource‑sovereignty policies — and how Zimbabwe balances local beneficiation goals with the need to sustain mining investment.