Zimbabwe Suspends Raw Mineral and Lithium Concentrate Exports

HARARE, ZIMBABWE — 2026-02-25
Updated: 12:10 GMT

Zimbabwe has suspended the export of all raw minerals and lithium concentrates with immediate effect, according to an official statement issued by the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, Zimbabwe.

In a press statement titled “Ban of Export of Raw Minerals and Lithium Concentrate,” the ministry said the government has halted exports of all raw minerals and lithium concentrates “until further notice.” The directive applies to minerals currently in transit and requires compliance from customs and regulatory bodies, the statement said.

The Minister of Mines, Cde Hon Polite Kambamura, has declared an immediate prohibition on the export of raw minerals, emphasizing that all resources must undergo local processing before being shipped out of the country. He underscored that value addition within Zimbabwe is… pic.twitter.com/g5twAN1Jh9

— Harrison Risinamhodzi (@h_risinamhodzi) February 25, 2026

The ministry instructed the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ), and other regulators to enforce the suspension without exception. The government said the measure has been taken in the national interest and called for cooperation from the mining industry.

Zimbabwe’s mining authorities did not provide additionaldetailsl in the initial notice beyond the enforcement directive. The ministry’s statement emphasized full adherence by industry stakeholders and regulatory institutions.

There was no immediate comment from major mining operators at the time of publication. Industry bodies are expected to engage authorities through established regulatory channels.

CONTEXT & SIGNIFICANCE

Zimbabwe is one of Africa’s key producers of lithium and other strategic minerals. The country has previously signaled intentions to strengthen domestic beneficiation and increase value addition within its mining sector.

Across Africa, several governments have introduced policies aimed at retaining greater value from mineral resources through local processing requirements and export controls. Zimbabwe’s decision places it among countries seeking to adjust mineral trade frameworks as part of broader resource management strategies.

WHAT’S NEXT

The suspension remains in force until further notice, according to the ministry. Regulatory agencies have been directed to ensure full compliance at ports and border posts. Any additional implementation guidance will be issued by the relevant authorities.