Zimbabwe to Ban Export of Lithium Concentrates Starting January 2027

Zimbabwe will ban the export of lithium concentrates starting January 2027 to encourage local processing facilities, following a previous 2022 ban on unprocessed lithium ores. Mines Minister Winston Chitando emphasized the need for collaboration among lithium producers ahead of this new regulation.

Zimbabwe has announced a ban on the export of lithium concentrates set to take effect in January 2027. This decision stems from the government’s desire to encourage foreign mining companies to establish local processing and refining facilities. Previously, in 2022, Zimbabwe had already prohibited the export of unprocessed lithium ore; hence, only processed lithium concentrates could be exported until now.

The country’s Mines Minister, Winston Chitando, discussed the new measures during a recent media briefing, expressing that the aim is to enhance mineral value, generate local employment, and increase national revenue. Starting in January 2027, the only lithium product allowed for export will be lithium sulphates, which represent a higher level of value addition. This transition is expected to upgrade Zimbabwe’s lithium production significantly.

Chitando pointed out that major players in the market, including Bikita and Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe, are currently working on setting up lithium sulphate production plants. He highlighted that these facilities will allow for the conversion of lithium concentrates into lithium sulphate, a material crucial for battery manufacturing, thereby increasing the local industry’s capabilities.

Moreover, the Minister called upon stakeholders in the lithium sector to either invest in lithium sulphate facilities or enter into toll treatment agreements before the 2027 ban takes effect. “We would like to take this opportunity to call upon the players in the lithium sector to come together and collaborate,” Chitando stated, emphasizing the need for proactive engagement in this pivotal shift.

This move aligns with a broader trend among African nations striving to ensure that international mining companies contribute more significantly to the local economies by increasing the value derived from their natural resources.

In summary, Zimbabwe will implement a ban on lithium concentrate exports from January 2027, pushing foreign mining firms to set up processing facilities in the country. This measure follows a previous ban on unprocessed lithium ore exports, aiming to enhance local value addition and job creation. With plans in motion for lithium sulphate production, the government is encouraging all stakeholders to collaborate before the new regulations take effect.

Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com