Zimbabwe's lithium exports hit US$746 million in first half of 2026
Zimbabwe's lithium sector generated $746 million in the first half of 2026, driven by strong global demand for spodumene concentrates. While export volumes are high, the government is pushing for increased local beneficiation to move beyond raw material exports.
Why it matters
As a major global lithium producer, Zimbabwe's export performance and industrial policy significantly impact the global supply chain for electric vehicle batteries.
Zimbabwe’s lithium sector generated US$746 million in export earnings during the first half of 2026, with spodumene concentrates contributing US$672.8 million and lithium sulphate accounting for US$73.2 million, according to the latest figures released by the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ).
The latest statistics underscore both the rapid growth of Zimbabwe’s lithium industry and the country’s gradual shift towards mineral beneficiation, although exports remain heavily dominated by unprocessed and semi-processed products.
Spodumene concentrates accounted for more than nine times the export revenue generated by lithium sulphate during the period. However, the disparity largely reflects significantly higher export volumes rather than a higher value per tonne.
Spodumene concentrate, produced through the crushing and flotation of lithium ore before being exported for further chemical processing, continues to dominate Zimbabwe’s lithium exports.
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