Zimbabwe’s mineral sector delivered a strong first-quarter performance, with total mineral sales coming close to the $1 billion mark as lithium and Platinum Group Metals (PGMs) surged following the government’s export ban on unbeneficiated minerals.
The policy, introduced on February 25, has accelerated local value addition and beneficiation across the mining industry, reshaping export patterns and strengthening earnings from processed and semi-processed minerals.
According to data from the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ), total mineral sales reached 1,288,761 tonnes valued at $983.85 million in the first quarter of 2026. This represents a 27% increase in volume and a 79% jump in value compared to the same period last year.
Lithium emerged as one of the strongest performers, supported by rising global demand for battery minerals. Sales reached 240,826 tonnes worth $178.64 million, reflecting a 2% increase in volume and a 106% surge in value year-on-year.
Export restrictions reshape Zimbabwe’s mineral earnings profile
