By Itai Mazire
The government has introduced a range of measures designed to enhance value addition in the lithium mining sector, thereby boosting the country’s revenues.

Honourable Winston Chitando, Minister of Mines and Mining Development, urged industry players to prioritize the production of lithium sulphate.

“Currently, producers in the lithium space process to concentrate stage.

“Nevertheless, the government is committed to taking it to the next stage, which is lithium sulphate.

“This value-added mineral has various applications, including serving as a direct feed in battery manufacturing,” Minister Chitando stated.

He pointed out that the government has devised a set of measures to prevent the further exploitation of lithium reserves.

“As of January 2027, all exports of lithium concentrate will be prohibited,” he announced.

According to Minister Chitando, the government has identified two industry players that are establishing facilities for lithium sulphate value addition.

“We invite other players to invest in this new chapter,” said Minister Chitando.

Furthermore, he noted that other sector players are permitted to merge with those involved in lithium value addition.

“Players who are unable to establish centres can form partnerships to achieve the value addition project.”