Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata-Herald Correspondent
Government’s ban on the export of lithium concentrates and raw minerals is aimed at enhancing mineral accountability, promoting local beneficiation and maximising value retention within the country, Mines and Mining Development Minister Polite Kambamura has said.
Addressing journalists in Harare, Minister Kambamura said the suspension takes immediate effect and will remain in force until further notice.
He said the directive applies to all lithium concentrates and raw minerals, including consignments currently in transit.
“The Government wishes to advise all stakeholders that the Government has suspended export of all lithium concentrates and raw minerals with immediate effect until further notice,” Minister Kambamura said.
“This suspension includes all minerals currently in transit.”
Minister Kambamura directed the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) and all regulatory authorities to enforce the suspension without exception.
He said the Government expects full cooperation from the mining industry, adding that the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development will soon engage stakeholders to outline new expectations and the way forward.
In the same address, the Government tightened conditions governing the export of all other minerals.
Only mining companies holding valid mining titles and approved beneficiation plans will be authorised to export minerals.
Agents and third-party traders are not permitted to export minerals on behalf of mining title holders.
Applicants for export permits must submit a recommendation letter from the relevant Provincial Mines Office clearly stating the beneficiation capacity and compliance status with ministry regulations and statutory requirements.
Exporters are also required to declare the mineral composition of each consignment.
Minister Kambamura said his ministry reserves the right to test export consignments at any time to verify the declared mineral composition and no application will be processed without full compliance with the stipulated requirements.
“Any mineral exports not supported by valid export permits and complete documentation shall be denied clearance and confiscated by the State,” he said.
Minister Kambamura said continuous use of an expired or exhausted export permit constitutes a serious offence that may result in the withdrawal of future export permits and mining rights.
He said measures were being implemented in the national interest to strengthen transparency in mineral value addition, ensure compliance with mining legislation and enhance accountability in the exportation of Zimbabwe’s mineral resources.
