Zimbabwe Bans Raw Mineral Exports to Force Local Processing

The Government of Zimbabwe implemented an immediate and indefinite ban on the export of all raw minerals and lithium concentrates on February 25, 2026. This measure accelerates a value-addition strategy originally scheduled for 2027. The suspension applies to all unprocessed shipments, including those already in transit. Under the new framework, only mining companies with valid titles and approved beneficiation plants are permitted to export, while third-party agents are barred from exporting on behalf of title holders.

Minister of Mines and Mining Development Polite Kambamura stated the ban was necessary to stop "malpractices and leakages." Government officials, including Nick Mangwana, reported that some mining firms engaged in an "unacceptable scramble" to increase production and export volumes to deplete stocks before the original 2027 deadline. Vice President Constantino Chiwenga endorsed the move, arguing that exporting raw ore causes infrastructure damage and pollution without providing economic value for future generations.

The policy has caused a supply shock, removing an estimated 7% of the global 2026 lithium supply and driving up lithium carbonate prices on the Guangzhou Futures Exchange. While the move supports domestic goals, it has created uncertainty for foreign investors. In response, Chinese firms such as Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt and Sinomine Resources are accelerating plans for local processing plants. Additionally, the state-owned Mutapa Energy Minerals intends to construct a concentrate-processing plant by mid-2026, while Sandawana Mines plans a $275 million concentrator plant for December 2027.