Tanzania Enhances Its Position in the Global Lithium Market…

Tanzania is boosting its lithium market position through government initiatives and international investment, particularly after a ban on raw lithium exports. Strategic programs such as the Tanzania Critical and Strategic Mineral Strategy and partnerships with global coalitions are expected to enhance financing and exploration. Private sector engagement is rising, highlighted by multiple international mining firms investing in lithium exploration. Upcoming African Mining Week will connect Tanzanian projects with potential investors, showcasing opportunities in the lithium value chain.

Tanzania is enhancing its role in the global lithium market through a combination of government initiatives and substantial involvement from international exploration and production firms. Following the implementation of a raw lithium export ban in 2023, investment in the sector has surged, as the country aims to stimulate downstream investments with a robust array of ongoing projects.

The Tanzanian government has devised multiple strategic initiatives to attract investment in both the lithium industry and the broader critical minerals sector. In late 2024, the government launched the Tanzania Critical and Strategic Mineral Strategy, currently in the consultation phase, aimed at optimizing the management of vital resources, including lithium. This initiative seeks to promote exploration, mining, local beneficiation, and enhanced supply chain management.

Additionally, in October 2024, the Geological Survey of Tanzania initiated a 73 billion TZS High-Resolution Airborne Geophysical Survey. This nationwide program intends to map the country’s mineral resources, including lithium, with a goal of surveying up to 50% of Tanzania’s market by 2030, thereby facilitating further investments and exploration projects.

In September 2024, Tanzania entered into a partnership with the Minerals Security Partnership, which consists of 14 Western nations and the European Commission, to enhance financing access, share technical knowledge, and fortify supply chains for critical minerals like lithium and graphite. These strategic programs are anticipated to support increased investment throughout the lithium value chain.

Private sector involvement is also on the rise, as numerous international mining companies engage in Tanzanian lithium exploration and production endeavors. Australian firm AustChina concluded exploration on four high-priority lithium targets at its Chenene Project in July 2024, confirming the presence of high-grade lithium deposits. Similarly, Dubai-based Titanium Lithium identified lithium-bearing minerals in its Titan 1 and Titan 2 projects, while U.S.-based CGrowth Capital made significant discoveries in the Dodoma Region during a field mapping exercise.

The forthcoming African Mining Week will serve as a platform for connecting Tanzanian lithium projects with potential investors. This event is expected to highlight prospects for collaboration and investment throughout Tanzania and the African lithium value chain. African Mining Week will occur in conjunction with the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference, scheduled for October 1-3 in Cape Town.

In summary, Tanzania is solidifying its presence in the lithium market through strategic government initiatives and active private sector investments. The ban on raw lithium exports, the Critical and Strategic Mineral Strategy, and partnerships to enhance supply chains are pivotal for attracting investments. Upcoming events like African Mining Week are crucial for fostering global collaboration and investment in Tanzania’s burgeoning lithium sector.

Original Source: energycapitalpower.com