Gwanda Lithium Mine Secures Export Permit, Begins ...

Gwanda Lithium Mine Secures Export Permit, Begins Shipments to China

Zim Now Writer

Gwanda Lithium Mine has successfully completed its multi-million-dollar processing plant and secured an export permit from the Government, paving the way for lithium concentrate shipments to China.

The project is part of a wave of significant lithium investments in Zimbabwe, driven by rising global demand for the mineral, which is crucial for electric vehicle production and renewable energy storage.

Zimbabwe's lithium sector has attracted substantial investments, particularly from Chinese companies. Among the notable projects are the US$300 million spodumene processing plant at Bikita Lithium Mine and the US$300 million lithium concentrator at the Arcadia project near Harare. These initiatives position Zimbabwe as a key player in the global transition to clean energy.

Minister Chitando stated that Gwanda Lithium Mine had applied for an export licence after completing its processing plant.

He revealed that the company had been granted a waiver to proceed with operations while awaiting final approval.

Since beginning operations in January 2024, the mine has been producing approximately 1,500 tonnes of lithium concentrate daily, demonstrating strong operational capacity and growth potential.

Recognizing this output, the ministry issued a six-month export licence for a trial shipment of 5,000 tonnes of lithium concentrate to China. This trial aims to establish viable international markets for the company.

Currently, the mine employs 300 people, with 80 percent of the workforce being locals. Once the plant reaches full capacity, production is expected to hit one million tonnes of ore and 200,000 tonnes of lithium concentrate annually. The US$54 million mining venture is a subsidiary of Tsingshan Holdings Limited Group, a Chinese global investor.

Tsingshan has made major investments in Zimbabwe, including the US$1.5 billion Dinson Iron and Steel plant in Mvuma, Midlands Province. The group also operates Dinson Colliery in Hwange, Matabeleland North Province, and Afrochine Smelting in Selous, Mashonaland West Province.

Dinson had previously shown interest in setting up a lithium battery manufacturing plant, which led to its acquisition of lithium mining claims in Gwanda. Now, with lithium concentrate production underway, the company is positioning itself to support its proposed high-value lithium battery project in Zimbabwe.