Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Mines and Mining Development has announced the suspension of the export of all raw minerals and lithium concentrates with immediate effect until further notice.
The suspension includes all minerals currently in transit. The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority ZIMRA, Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe MMCZ and regulators have been instructed to observe the suspension without exception. Government has called on the mining industry to cooperate with the measure, stating that it has been taken in the national interest.
The Ministry said it will engage the industry in the near future on new expectations and the way forward.
Government reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, in-country value addition and beneficiation, compliance and accountability in the exportation of Zimbabwe’s mineral resources. It outlined mandatory requirements governing the export of all other minerals.
Under the eligibility requirements, only mining companies holding valid mining titles and approved beneficiation plants will be authorised to export minerals. Agents and third-party traders are not authorised to export minerals on behalf of mining title holders.
Applicants for export permits must attach a recommendation letter from the relevant Provincial Mining Office, clearly stating beneficiation capacity and compliance status with Ministry regulations and statutory requirements. Applicants are also required to declare the mineral composition of the export consignment.
The Ministry stated that it may test consignments at any time to verify mineral composition and that no application will be processed without full compliance with the requirements.
ZIMRA, MMCZ and other regulatory authorities have been directed to strictly enforce the requirements. Mineral exports not supported by valid export permits and complete documentation will be denied clearance.
The continued use of an expired or exhausted export permit is regarded as a serious offence and may result in the withdrawal of both the export permit and the mining title.
Government said the measures are being implemented to enhance mineral accountability, promote beneficiation and maximise value retention within Zimbabwe. The Ministry said it will continue engaging stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation and to support compliant operators.
The statement was issued by Hon. Dr P. Kambamura MP, Minister of Mines and Mining Development.
