Zimbabwe is accelerating efforts to process its mineral resources domestically after launching Africa’s first lithium sulfate processing plant. The $400 million facility, operated by Chinese-owned Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe, began full operations in May after the government moved to restrict exports of raw lithium as part of its beneficiation policy. Harare plans to expand the ban to cover lithium concentrate exports from January 2027, hoping to encourage further investment in local refining and manufacturing. Officials say additional lithium sulfate and carbonate plants are under construction, with ambitions to eventually produce lithium batteries and solar panels within Zimbabwe. The policy forms part of a broader industrialization strategy covering 14 critical minerals, including cobalt and platinum. The government argues that local beneficiation will create jobs, increase export earnings, and ensure the country captures more value from its natural resources.
France 24