Lithium Export Ban Drives Local Beneficiation Ambitions

During a recent Post-Cabinet Press Briefing, Polite Kambamura, Minister of Mines and Mining Development, announced the immediate ban on the export of lithium concentrates, saying the move is aimed at accelerating local beneficiation and value addition within Zimbabwe.

Hon. Kambamura explained that the decision fast-tracks an earlier Government plan to prohibit lithium concentrate exports by January 2027.

He said the rapid pace at which lithium was being exported in raw form necessitated urgent intervention.

“The measure promotes local beneficiation and value addition,” he said.

“We had initially planned to implement the ban by January 2027, but given the speed at which lithium was being exported, it became necessary to act immediately.”

The Minister emphasised that Zimbabwe is determined to curb the outflow of raw minerals and instead maximise the full economic benefits of its natural resources.

“We must ensure that Zimbabwe fully benefits from its mineral wealth by stopping the export of raw materials and promoting value addition at home,” Hon. Kambamura said.

He noted that lithium prices rose sharply following Zimbabwe’s announcement of the export ban, reflecting the country’s significant influence in the global market.

Zimbabwe is Africa’s largest producer of lithium, supplying approximately 10 per cent of global demand and up to 90 per cent of China’s lithium requirements.

“As Africa’s largest lithium producer, supplying 10 per cent of global demand and 90 per cent of China’s needs, Zimbabwe holds a powerful position in the sector,” he said.

“The rise in prices after our announcement demonstrates our strategic importance.”

Hon. Kambamura added that the Government’s focus is not only on extraction but also on attracting quality investment into downstream industries such as battery and solar panel manufacturing.

“We want to attract serious investors who will establish industries that manufacture products such as batteries and solar panels,” he said.

“Zimbabwe must position itself as a pivotal voice in the global green energy transition.”

The immediate ban marks a significant shift in Zimbabwe’s mining policy, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to industrialisation and the retention of value within the country.