Govt halts raw mineral exports
CLOUDINE MATOLA / SIFISO MAPURANGA
Government has suspended the exportation of all raw minerals in a decisive move to promote transparency, in-country value addition, and accountability in the mining sector, Business Times can report.
Zimbabwe has been losing millions of dollars due to mineral smuggling, undermining the growth of the mining industry.
The suspension was announced by Mines and Mining Development Minister Dr Polite Kambamura.
“The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development advises all stakeholders that the export of all raw minerals and lithium concentrates is suspended with immediate effect until further notice. This includes all minerals currently in transit. ZIMRA, the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ), and other regulators are instructed to observe the suspension without exception. The government expects full cooperation from the mining industry on this measure, taken in the national interest,” Kambamura said.
The minister emphasised that only mining companies holding valid mining titles and operating approved beneficiation plants will be allowed to export minerals. Agents and third-party traders are prohibited from exporting on behalf of mining title holders.
Export permit applications must include a recommendation from the relevant Provincial Mining Office, detailing beneficiation capacity and compliance with statutory requirements, along with the mineral composition of the consignment.
“ZIMRA, MMCZ, and other regulatory authorities will strictly enforce these requirements. Any mineral exports lacking valid permits and complete documentation will be denied clearance. Operating with an expired or exhausted export permit is a serious offence, leading to withdrawal of the permit and mining title,” Kambamura added.
The Ministry will continue engaging stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation and support compliant operators, while promoting mineral accountability, beneficiation, and maximising value retention within Zimbabwe.
