The Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union (ZDAMWU) has welcomed the government’s decision to ban the export of lithium concentrates starting in 2027, saying it aligns with the country’s vision to promote local beneficiation and create more jobs.
Speaking in reaction to the announcement, ZDAMWU Secretary General Justice Chinhema said the union had long been advocating for value addition in the mining sector, particularly for strategic minerals like lithium, chrome, coal, and diamonds. He commended the government and the Ministry of Mines for taking what he described as a “commendable policy shift.”
“Indeed, the ban to export raw lithium is what we’ve always been calling for,” said Chinhema. “Beneficiation and value addition create more jobs for our people and stimulate development in mining communities.”
However, he expressed concern over the delayed implementation of the lithium concentrate export ban, saying the union would have preferred it to take effect immediately or by January 2026 to avoid loss of jobs and opportunities.
Chinhema also urged the government to avoid granting exemptions to the policy, warning that such loopholes could undermine the objectives of the ban.
“This policy must be strict. No exemptions should be allowed. Investors must understand that our minerals are national assets and must benefit Zimbabweans first,” he said.
The union further called on authorities to extend the beneficiation policy to all minerals mined in Zimbabwe, including diamonds, chrome, and coal. Chinhema stressed that requiring in-country processing—such as cutting and polishing diamonds or processing chrome and coal—would lead to greater economic gains, more employment, and local empowerment.
“We want this policy extended to all mining companies—big or small. Even small-scale miners can grow if they add value to their minerals,” he added.
Meanwhile – residents in Zvishavane have also expressed support for the policy, saying it will generate more jobs and help retain foreign currency in the country.
Currently, Zimbabwe has a ban on the export of raw lithium, and the new measure targeting lithium concentrates marks a further tightening of the government’s effort to ensure that mineral wealth contributes meaningfully to national development.
