Buy Zimbabwe applauds Govt ban on export of raw minerals

STAFF WRITER

Buy Zimbabwe has applauded the Government of Zimbabwe for its landmark decision to ban the export of raw minerals, including lithium concentrate.

The announcement, made by Mines and Mining Development Minister Dr Polite Kambamura on Wednesday, marks a significant step toward harnessing the country’s mineral wealth for the benefit of citizens and the national economy.

Lithium, a critical component in the global transition to renewable energy and electric vehicles, is abundant in Zimbabwe. The country is Africa’s top producer and ranks sixth globally in lithium reserves.

Buy Zimbabwe Advocacy Officer Elvis Masvaure hailed the move as a catalyst for local value addition and job creation. “The government’s prohibition of raw mineral exports is a proactive measure to ensure that valuable resources are processed locally, fostering industrial growth, creating employment, and enhancing the value of Zimbabwe’s exports,” he said.

Masvaure emphasized that the policy aligns with Buy Zimbabwe’s mission to promote local beneficiation, a cornerstone of sustainable economic development under NDS 2.

“This decision will encourage investment in local processing facilities, stimulate innovation, and ultimately build a robust mining industry capable of competing on the global stage,” he added.

Economist Professor Gift Mugano also supported the government’s decision. “This is a step in the right direction. When we export value-added minerals, their worth increases five- to tenfold. Beyond boosting export revenues, this policy will drive job creation through the construction of processing plants,” he said.

Zimbabwe’s mineral exports play a pivotal role in its trade performance. Last year, the country exported goods worth US$9.7bn while imports totaled US$10.1bn, with the top 10 mineral exports alone generating US$7.6 bn. A trade surplus of US$240m was recorded in December 2025.