Zimbabwe’s mining sector is gearing up for a stronger performance in 2026, with executives forecasting a six percent rise in overall mineral output, according to the 2025 State of the Mining Industry Survey presented in Harare.
Lead researcher Professor Albert Makochekanwa said the data shows that most mining houses expect to ramp up production next year, supported by ongoing expansion projects, improving global commodity prices and anticipated reforms to the domestic mining policy environment. He said the modelling indicates broad-based growth potential across almost all major minerals, with gold expected to lead the recovery.
Gold production, the country’s top mineral export, is projected to increase from an estimated 47,000 kilogrammes in 2025 to 50,000 kilogrammes in 2026 under current policy conditions. If the government implements supportive reforms and improves operating conditions, gold output could rise further to 53,000 kilogrammes. Professor Makochekanwa said similar modelling across platinum group metals, lithium, chrome and coal shows nearly universal growth potential if stability in both global and local markets holds.
The survey also projects a sharp improvement in capacity utilisation across the sector. Average utilisation is expected to rise from 88 percent this year to 95 percent in 2026, reflecting a shift toward full use of installed capacity. Platinum group metals and coal operations are already running at near-maximum levels. Gold producers are expected to increase capacity utilisation from 89 percent to 96 percent, while chrome mines will edge up from 75 percent to 80 percent. Professor Makochekanwa said the figures demonstrate a sector preparing for expansion and consolidating operational efficiency.
Optimism is being fuelled further by favourable expectations in global commodity markets. Executives anticipate higher prices for gold, PGMs and lithium next year, driven by stronger demand and improving geopolitical stability in key markets. This anticipated price recovery feeds directly into more positive revenue and profitability projections for mining companies.
Professor Makochekanwa said that if the expected global and domestic conditions materialize, 2026 could mark a turning point for Zimbabwe’s mining industry. He noted that the sector is well-positioned to scale up production, strengthen its contribution to export earnings and reinforce its central role in the country’s economic growth trajectory.
