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Zimbabwe Bans Raw Mineral Exports to Boost Local Processing

2/25/2026

23 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Zimbabwe has suspended exports of all raw minerals and lithium concentrates until further notice, per Minister of Mines Polite Kambamura.
The ban covers minerals in transit to boost local processing and accountability.
The government moved up the ban from January 2027 due to export malpractices.
Zimbabwe exported 1.128 million tonnes of lithium concentrate in 2025.
Chinese firms Huayou and Sinomine plan processing plants in the country.

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Story summary

Zimbabwe has suspended exports of all raw minerals and lithium concentrates until further notice, per Minister of Mines Polite Kambamura.
The ban covers minerals in transit to boost local processing and accountability.
The government moved up the ban from January 2027 due to export malpractices.
Zimbabwe exported 1.128 million tonnes of lithium concentrate in 2025.
Chinese firms Huayou and Sinomine plan processing plants in the country.