Faith Ndou
MASVINGO-The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development has announced an immediate suspension of the export of all raw minerals and lithium concentrates including minerals currently in transit.
The government says the move is aimed at promoting in-country value addition, beneficiation and accountability in Zimbabwe’s mining sector.
In a press statement released yesterday by Dr Polite Kambamura, the Minister of Mines and Mining Development said regulators including ZIMRA, MMCZ and other authorities, must strictly observe the suspension.
“Government expects full cooperation from the mining industry on this measure, which has been taken in the national interest,” the statement read.
The Ministry added that “only mining companies holding valid mining titles and approved beneficiation plants will be allowed to export minerals. Agents and third-party traders are explicitly barred from exporting minerals on behalf of mining companies.”
Export applications must include “a recommendation letter from the relevant Provincial Mining Office detailing beneficiation capacity and compliance with statutory regulations as well as a full declaration of the mineral composition,” read part of the statement.
“The Ministry will at any time test consignments to verify mineral composition. No application will be processed without full compliance,” the statement warned noting that violations including attempting to export minerals on expired or exhausted permits, “may result in the withdrawal of export permits and mining titles.”
Minister Kambamura reiterated the government’s stance saying “any attempt to export minerals without valid permits and complete documentation is a serious offence. Government will not hesitate to withdraw export permits and mining titles to protect national interests.”
The Ministry said it will continue engaging with industry stakeholders to “ensure smooth implementation of these measures and support compliant operators.”
The suspension remains in effect until further notice with the government promising to outline new expectations and the way forward in coming engagements with the mining sector.
