Wed Feb 25 11:54:04 UTC 2026: ### Zimbabwe Imposes Immediate Ban on All Raw Mineral Exports
The Story:
Zimbabwe has abruptly suspended the export of all raw minerals and lithium concentrates, effective immediately. Announced on Wednesday, the ban includes minerals currently in transit. The government states this measure is in the “national interest,” aimed at promoting in-country value addition, transparency, and accountability in the mineral sector. This decision comes ahead of a previously planned January 2027 deadline for banning lithium concentrate exports, which was intended to incentivize local processing.
Key Points:
* The ban covers all raw minerals and lithium concentrates, including those already in transit.
* The government cites “continued malpractices during the exportation of minerals” as a concern leading to the ban.
* Zimbabwe exported 1.128 million metric tonnes of lithium-bearing spodumene concentrate in the year ending December 2025, an 11% increase year-over-year.
* Chinese mining firms, including Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt, Sinomine, Chengxin Lithium Group, and Yahua, have invested heavily in Zimbabwe’s spodumene output.
* Mining contributes 14.3 percent to Zimbabwe’s GDP, second only to manufacturing.
Key Takeaways:
* Zimbabwe is taking a protectionist stance on its mineral resources, particularly lithium, seeking to maximize domestic economic benefits.
* The immediate ban suggests a sense of urgency and potentially indicates significant concerns about illicit mineral outflows.
* Chinese investment plays a crucial role in Zimbabwe’s mining sector, making future negotiations with these companies essential for the policy’s success.
* The ban may disrupt global supply chains, particularly for battery-grade lithium, given Zimbabwe’s significant reserves.
* The success of this policy hinges on Zimbabwe’s ability to establish local processing infrastructure and effectively enforce the ban.
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