Embassy tells Chinese firms to follow Zimbabwe law

The Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe has urged its nationals and companies operating in the country to strictly comply with local laws and heighten risk awareness following Harare's decision to suspend exports of raw minerals and lithium concentrates.

In a statement, the embassy cautioned that recent policy shifts by the Zimbabwean Government — including tighter regulations in reserved sectors — could have significant implications for business operations.

"The Government of Zimbabwe has recently suspended exports of raw minerals and lithium concentrates, and introduced new regulations concerning reserved sectors," the embassy said.

It advised prospective investors to conduct thorough due diligence before committing capital to the country.

"Prior to making investments in Zimbabwe, investors shall conduct a comprehensive and in-depth assessment of the local business environment, industrial policies and relevant laws and regulations," the statement read.

"They should fully consider various investment and operational risks and make informed decisions so as to avoid losses resulting from government policy changes."

The embassy also urged companies already operating in Zimbabwe to strengthen internal controls and ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements.

"In the course of production and business operations in Zimbabwe, Chinese enterprises and nationals shall strictly abide by local laws and regulations, adopt proactive risk prevention and control measures, and protect their legitimate rights and interests through legal channels," it added.

The advisory comes as Zimbabwe intensifies efforts to promote value addition and beneficiation in its mining sector, particularly in lithium — a strategic mineral in global battery supply chains.

Authorities have increasingly moved to curb the export of unprocessed minerals in a bid to boost domestic processing, create jobs, and maximise revenue from the country's vast mineral resources.

The developments highlight the growing intersection between resource nationalism and foreign investment, as Zimbabwe seeks to balance investor confidence with its long-term industrialisation goals.