Prospect Lithium Marks Historic First with Lithium Sulphate Export

Prospect Lithium of Zimbabwe has dispatched its first consignment of lithium sulphate from its newly commissioned US$400 million processing plant at Arcadia Mine.

According to the company, this is the first time lithium sulphate has been produced not only in Zimbabwe but across the African continent.

The milestone signals a significant move towards increased local processing of lithium, rather than exporting raw or semi-processed materials.

Prospect described the development as a breakthrough for the country and region, noting that the shipment represents the first production of lithium salts in Zimbabwe and Africa, and highlights progress in mineral beneficiation and industrial growth.

Zimbabwe has been tightening its policies on lithium exports in recent years. In 2022, the government banned the export of raw lithium, pushing mining companies to process the mineral into concentrates.

At that time, major players, including Prospect Lithium (owned by Huayou Cobalt), had already begun upgrading their operations.

In 2025, authorities raised the requirements further, announcing that by 2027, lithium producers will be expected to export sulphate, a higher-value product used in the manufacture of battery materials.

To support this transition, a 10% tax was introduced on lithium concentrates to encourage further processing.

Earlier this year, the government also temporarily halted concentrate exports, later allowing limited shipments under a quota system as producers adjust to the new value-addition requirements.