Zimbabwe to lift lithium concentrate export ban with stringent conditions

On 2nd April, Zimbabwe's Minister of Mines and Mining Development outlined the prerequisite conditions for lifting the country's ban on lithium concentrate exports, signalling a potential thaw in the export suspension imposed in February 2026. The move reflects the government's intent to unlock value from the sector while enforcing strict domestic beneficiation requirements and operational standards. The conditions, detailed in a letter to the Chamber of Mines, represent a high bar for operators and reveal significant friction points between Zimbabwe's policy ambitions and the economics facing miners and converters.