Zimbabwe has announced an immediate suspension of all antimony and tungsten exports, including ores and concentrates, until further notice. The directive, issued on September 6, 2026, signals a significant shift in the nation’s mining policy and is expected to have immediate implications for producers and marketers of these critical minerals.
The move comes amidst a broader effort to rationalize the country’s mineral resource management and potentially encourage local beneficiation. Further clarification is anticipated from the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, as well as the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ), regarding transitional arrangements for existing contracts, stockpiles, and shipments that may have been scheduled prior to the directive’s enactment.
Key Players Involved
- Ministry of Mines and Mining Development: Issued the directive to suspend exports.
- Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ): Expected to provide further clarification on the new policy.
- Dr. Polite Kambamura: Minister of Mines and Mining Development, copied on the directive.
- F. Moyo: Deputy Minister, also copied on the directive.
- Commissioner General of ZIMRA: Recipient of the directive, indicating customs enforcement.
Event Timeline
- September 6, 2026: Directive to suspend antimony and tungsten exports takes immediate effect.
