News & Updates

The Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) Inspectorate Department recorded a major enforcement breakthrough in the fourth quarter of 2025 following interception of four trucks carrying lithium concentrates without valid export documentation at Beitbridge Border Post, leading to arrests and ongoing court proceedings. According to the Inspectorate December 2025 annual report, this incident marked a defining moment in the departments’s transition from deployment and familiarisation to full-scale, intelligence-led enforcement at the country’s key mineral exit points. During the October–December 2025 period, Inspectors significantly scaled up border control operations at Beitbridge and Forbes Border Posts, intensifying verification of export documentation, reconciliation of mineral declarations against Zimbabwe Revenue Authority and clearing agent records, physical inspection of cargo and stop-and-search operations. These measures not only disrupted attempted smuggling activities but also reinforced the deterrent effect of sustained Inspector presence along high-risk export corridors. In addition to the lithium interceptions, two trucks carrying quartz without proper documentation were intercepted in December 2025 at a Beitbridge truck stop and handed over to the CID Minerals, Flora and Fauna Unit for further investigations. Collectively, these cases underscored the growing effectiveness of coordinated border surveillance and enforcement in curbing illicit mineral movements. However, Q4 operations also exposed systemic weaknesses in bulk mineral export verification, particularly relating to discrepancies between declared and actual weights for lithium and chrome exports. At Forbes Border Post, repeated variances were recorded between MMCZ invoices, ZIMRA deductions and independently verified weights, raising concerns around quota leakage and potential revenue losses. Beyond the border points, the Inspectorate sustained inland surveillance and mine audit operations despite manpower and logistical constraints. Intelligence-driven patrols, hotspot inspections, and stock reconciliations across key mineral-producing areas disrupted practices feeding smuggling networks. The Corporation is looking to address these gaps in order to sustain gains achieved in Q4 2025 and advancing MMCZ’s mandate of safeguarding national mineral revenues and promoting transparency across Zimbabwe’s mineral value chain.

Zimbabwe’s mining sector recorded generally stable performance in the fourth quarter of 2025, with strong growth in lithium production, steady PGM output and renewed activity in steel, even as persistent risks in chrome exports continued to demand heightened monitoring and audit interventions by the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ). According to the 2025 annual Monitoring Report, production and export activity remained largely consistent in platinum group metals (PGMs), lithium, coal, coke and steel. However, monitoring teams maintained intensified oversight in response to recurring risks of unverified and potentially illegal exports, particularly within the chrome sub-sector. At the same time, several strategic capacity-building projects progressed, strengthening MMCZ’s technical ability to verify mineral quality and volumes. PGMs Hold Steady Amid Producer-Specific Challenges In the PGM sector, Zimplats continued to outperform budget expectations, supported by strong milling and smelting throughput and robust converter matte production. Mimosa maintained stable concentrate output and recoveries, although recovery rates occasionally trailed targets. Unki Mine faced continued operational pressures driven by low feed grades, power supply disruptions and unresolved assay certification challenges linked to South African laboratory comparisons. Despite these constraints, stock levels across all PGM producers remained well controlled, limiting risks of unmonitored material accumulation. Lithium Momentum Accelerates as New Capacity Comes Online Lithium emerged as one of the quarter’s standout performers, with notable production growth recorded at Bikita, Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe (PLZ), Sabi Star and Kamativi. Export trends varied across producers, influenced by plant development schedules, deliberate stock-building strategies and moisture-management practices such as sun-drying at Sabi Star. A major milestone was achieved with the successful commissioning of the PLZ lithium sulphate plant, marking a significant step toward downstream value addition. However, operational challenges persisted in some areas. Bikita reported reduced caesium output due to uneconomical feedstock, while Gwanda Lithium accumulated substantial stockpiles in November and December, recording minimal exports during the period. Chrome Exports Under Scrutiny as Illegal Risks Persist The chrome sector continued to present the most critical monitoring risks. Afrochine retained its position as the largest high-carbon ferrochrome exporter, while African Chrome Fields increased chrome exports alongside expanded wash plant capacity. Zimasco further strengthened capacity with the commissioning of a new wash plant in Neta, capable of processing up to 8 000 tonnes per month. Despite these developments, MMCZ monitoring identified ongoing risks of illegal exports from unregistered and unmonitored wash plants in chrome-rich areas including Lalapanzi, Ngezi, Darwendale, Mutorashanga, Mapinga, and Mvurwi. Persistent discrepancies, where chrome concentrate assay results consistently exceeded producer-declared figures—reinforced the urgent need for systematic wash plant mapping, production audits and tighter export verification. Coal, Coke and Steel Show Uneven Recovery Performance in the Hwange coal and coke zone was mixed. HCCL and ZJI led thermal coal production, while South Mining, ZJI and Dinson dominated coke dispatches. In the steel sector, DISCO resumed high-volume production in November and December, following a production halt in October. Strengthening Technical Capacity to Close Gaps Beyond routine monitoring, Q4 saw tangible progress in strengthening MMCZ’s technical capabilities. Antimony samples were successfully assayed, with results received in December, while Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) were delivered in November to support quality assurance protocols. The Corporation also commissioned key Metallurgy Laboratory equipment, including ICP-OES, carbon-sulphur analysers, dust and fume systems, and XRF instrumentation, enhancing in-house analytical capacity. Looking Ahead While Q4 2025 reflected resilience and growth across key minerals, particularly lithium, the quarter also underscored persistent vulnerabilities in export verification, over-declaration risks at mine sites and illicit chrome movements. Addressing these gaps through enhanced audits, regional mapping and strengthened analytical capacity remains central to MMCZ’s monitoring mandate as the Corporation moves into 2026.

A high-level Zimbabwean delegation led by the Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Hon. Dr. Eng. Caleb Makwiranzou, has moved to strengthen oversight of mineral exports following a verification visit to Beira Port, Mozambique, amid Government concerns over possible cross-border mineral leakages. The delegation, comprising officials from the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development and the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ), visited Beira Port from 16–18 November 2025 to assess mineral export logistics, verify stockpiles of Zimbabwean minerals and engage port authorities on safeguarding the integrity of the export corridor. Port operator Cornelder de Moçambique confirmed that Zimbabwe accounts for over 40 percent of the cargo handled at Beira, underscoring the country’s strategic importance to the port’s operations. Container volumes linked to Zimbabwe have grown sharply over the past decade, with lithium exports rising from zero in 2020 to more than 24,000 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) in 2025, while chrome and ferrochrome volumes have nearly doubled over the same period. A guided tour of the port revealed stockpiles of Zimbabwean minerals at the quay, including chrome concentrates, ferrochrome, lithium concentrates and black granite blocks, all awaiting shipment under customs clearance procedures. Cornelder officials indicated that minerals are digitally tracked and stored for limited periods to reduce congestion and demurrage risks. Based on the port’s robust digital systems, security surveillance and customs processes, the delegation concluded that large-scale mineral leakages through the main Beira Port were unlikely. However, attention has shifted to privately owned warehouses in the Beira Industrial Area, where minerals may be stored outside the port’s direct control. While no irregularities were confirmed during the visit, authorities flagged the need for further audits and direct engagement with Mozambican counterparts to ensure declared exports align with actual stock movements. The visit reaffirmed Beira Port’s capacity to support Zimbabwe’s growing mineral exports, while reinforcing the need for enhanced regional cooperation, digital integration and targeted audits beyond the port precinct to close potential loopholes.

For Sharai Machikiche, affectionately known as Chihera, the journey into gemstone mastery is more than skills acquisition. It is a statement of possibility. Sharai is a beneficiary of the MMCZ–Zimbabwe School of Mines (ZSM) Principles of Gemstone Mastery Capacity Development Training (Cohort 1), where she undertook the Gemstone Mastery, Cutting, Polishing and Jewellery Course in December 2025. A proud member of Women Empowerment in Mining Zimbabwe (WEMZ), she represents a growing number of women who are reshaping Zimbabwe’s mining landscape through resilience, determination and access to opportunity. “I am testimony that disability does not mean inability. I would like to urge all differently abled people to take advantage of this opportunity to get empowerment. ZSM told me that I am their first differently abled student, it is my hope that they open their doors to more people like me,” she said. Her story is a powerful reminder that talent knows no boundaries when inclusion is intentional. Through this two-week programme, Sharai joined 80 participants, including women, youth, and differently abled miners, who were capacitated with practical, hands-on skills aimed at strengthening value addition, sustainability, and responsible mineral marketing across the mining value chain. The programme culminated in the Principles of Gemstone Mastery Capacity Development Graduation, celebrating not just technical competence, but the unlocking of human potential and inclusive participation in the sector. As MMCZ reflects on this milestone, the Corporation reaffirms its commitment to empowering women of all abilities through skills development and access to opportunity. By placing people at the centre of mineral value addition, MMCZ continues to support inclusive growth and contribute meaningfully to Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 aspirations.

HARARE, Zimbabwe, Nov 14, 2025 – Zimbabwe’s exclusive minerals marketing agency for all minerals, except silver and gold, today provided an operational update, including production summary for Quarter 3, 2025. The Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) has reported a strong third-quarter 2025 performance, achieving significant growth in both mineral sales volumes and export earnings despite a challenging operating environment characterised by high energy costs, logistics bottlenecks and soft global commodity prices. In its Q3 2025 Trading Update presented at the Corporation’s 6th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Harare, MMCZ General Manager Dr. Nomusa Jane Moyo said the positive results reflect resilience in Zimbabwe’s mining sector and the effectiveness of targeted marketing strategies. Robust Sales Performance In the nine months to September 2025, mineral sales reached 3.66 million metric tonnes valued at US$2.36 billion. In terms of volume, this was a 14% surge from 3.36 million metric tonnes recorded for the same period in 2024. For value terms, a marginal 0.66% improvement was seen on prior year comparable period. The growth was driven by strong performance in Platinum Group Metals (PGMs), chrome, ferroalloys, lithium, pollucite and coal, offsetting weaker returns in diamonds and steel due to subdued global prices. Sector Highlights • Platinum Group Metals (PGMs): Production remained steady across Zimplats, Mimosa and Unki, with continued strong exports of matte and concentrate. • Lithium: Output continued to surge at Bikita, Sabi Star, PLZ, Kamativi and Gwanda operations. PLZ’s lithium sulphate plant is nearing completion, marking progress in downstream value addition. • Coal and Coke: Output remained stable, though exports slowed following reduced uptake by South Africa’s ArcelorMittal. Zhong Jin Heli’s 100MW coal-gas power project was commissioned during the quarter. • Chrome: African Chrome Fields (ACF) led exports at 24,000 tonnes. Efforts are underway to formalise unregistered processors to curb mineral leakages. • Antimony: Mapping and verification of new producers in Mberengwa and Midlands are ongoing as part of the Corporation’s mineral accounting and compliance drive. Strategic Projects and Initiatives • Weighbridges: Rutenga is operational; Harare construction is ongoing ahead of Gweru and Zvishavane installations. • PGM Projects: Karo Resources is on track for 2026 production start-up, while Todal, Bravura and Great Dyke Investments are advancing feasibility and exploration works. • Monitoring & Compliance: Border inspection teams have been deployed to Forbes and Beitbridge to strengthen anti-smuggling efforts and tighten export monitoring. Market Outlook Global platinum prices are expected to remain firm, buoyed by safe-haven investment demand and industrial use, while the diamond market continues to adjust to soft demand and competition from lab-grown stones. Granite exports are projected to grow moderately (1.9–2.4% annually) on the back of regional construction activity. Domestically, MMCZ will continue focusing on value addition, contract realignment for PGMs and enhanced supply prioritisation for local smelters, in line with the Government’s Vision 2030 and National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2). Outlook Dr. Moyo noted that MMCZ remains confident of closing the year with solid results despite price volatility and logistical challenges. “Our third-quarter performance underscores the Corporation’s resilience and its strategic focus on beneficiation, transparency and sustainable mineral trade. MMCZ continues to position Zimbabwe as a competitive and responsible player in global mineral markets,” she said.

Cumulatively, a total of 1,021,296 Mt valued at US$555,159 million was sold. Compared to the same period last year, where 883,301.09 mt valued at US$ 758,671.74 million were sold, sales increased in volume terms by 16% and decreased in value terms by 27%. The increase in volume is attributable to the increases in the export of coal (63%), coke (58%), chrome ore lumpy (53%), copper concentrates (117%), high carbon ferrochrome (25%), scrap (37%) and the coming on board of steel in Q1, 2025 compared to the same period last year. The decrease in value is attributable to a decrease in sales of the PGMs cluster. The significant contraction in both volume and value for PGM concentrate sales can be attributed to the delayed implementation Mimosa-ZIMPLATS toll processing arrangement. The toll processing arrangement for the Mimosa material is yet to commence. Conversely, the decline in matte exports, while less pronounced in value, was primarily due to a production shortfall at Unki, resulting from electricity supply challenges encountered during the third quarter of 2024. It is anticipated that there will be an improvement in export receipts in Q2, once the Mimosa/Zimplats toll processing arrangement is finalised. Top Mineral Sales by Volume The top five (5) revenue contributors for the period were: 1. PGMs Matte – 4,762(oz) sold at US$ 208.4 million 2. Spodumene – 244,414Mt sold at US$ 83.5 million 3. HCFC – 98,129Mt sold at US$ 73.4 million 4. Coke various sizes – 264,331Mt sold at US$ 51.8 million 5. PGMs Concentrates – 15, 250.8Mt sold at US$ 48.7 million Top Mineral Sales by Value

The Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) held its 5th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on November 21, 2024, where it reported a significant financial growth and progress in its operations for the year 2023. Despite a challenging economic climate, MMCZ achieved a substantial financial growth, with a profit increase of 280% to RTGS$178.514 billion. The Corporation's sales volume also increased by 40.8% to 3,492,367.32Mt, valued at US$3.16 billion. MMCZ Declares Dividend The Corporation declared a total dividend of ZwG 18,523,981,039 for 2023, which will be paid in 2024. This marks the fifth consecutive year that MMCZ has declared and paid a dividend to its shareholder. Strategic Initiatives and Achievements MMCZ made significant progress in its strategic initiatives, including: - Research and Development: The Corporation collaborated with the National University of Science and Technology to characterize lithium-bearing mines in Zimbabwe. - Export Market Development: MMCZ created five new markets for different mineral products, including polished diamonds and granite slabs, lithium, feldspar, coke, and aluminium ingots. - Curbing Mineral Leakages: The Corporation implemented measures to mitigate mineral leakages, including investing in equipment for local government laboratories. - Value Addition and Beneficiation: MMCZ procured equipment for the establishment of a gemstone cutting and polishing training centre at the Zimbabwe School of Mines. Outlook for the Future MMCZ plans to enhance its research and development, upscale efforts to account for mineral resources, and pursue the development of new markets in uncharted territories. The Corporation's progress and achievements demonstrate its commitment to accounting for Zimbabwe’s mineral wealth, promoting the country's mining sector and contributing to its economic growth.

The Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) recently conducted a comprehensive 2025 strategy review session from October 13 to 18, 2024. The session, facilitated by the Public Service Commission, brought together MMCZ's management and staff to reflect on the Corporation's performance and strategize for the future. A key focus area of the review session was how MMCZ can maximize stakeholder return through mineral sales and marketing. Participants engaged in in-depth discussions on how to optimize the Corporation's operations to achieve this goal. The session also provided an opportunity for MMCZ to review its 2024 mineral leakage plugging efforts. The Corporation reflected on the progress made in addressing mineral leakage and forecast improved efficiency in 2025. As the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) comes to an end in 2025, MMCZ recognized the need to position itself for improved efficiency through the Whole of Government Performance Management System. The review session explored ways to align the Corporation's strategies with the government's overall performance management framework. The 2025 strategy review session was a critical step in MMCZ's efforts to enhance its performance and contribute to Zimbabwe's economic growth. By engaging with its staff and stakeholders, MMCZ is poised to drive growth, improve efficiency, and maximize stakeholder return in the years to come.

The Corporation recently participated in the 2024 Zanu PF Congress, where it showcased its initiatives and efforts in the mining sector. The event, which took place in Bulawayo, drew high-ranking government officials who visited the MMCZ stand and praised the Corporation's efforts in combating mineral leakage. The Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) stand was a hub of activity, with visitors showing keen interest in the Corporation's work. Government officials who visited the stand commended MMCZ for its tireless efforts in ensuring that Zimbabwe's mineral resources are exploited and marketed in a transparent and accountable manner. MMCZ's participation in the 2024 Zanu PF Congress was a testament to its commitment to promoting the country's mining sector and engaging with key stakeholders. The event provided a platform for MMCZ to showcase its initiatives and efforts, and to receive feedback and guidance from government officials and other stakeholders.

The Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) recently showcased its offerings at the 2024 Mine Entra exhibition, held at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo. For MMCZ, the exhibition’s key moment was a visit to the MMCZ stand by the President of Zimbabwe, Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, and the Mines and Mining Development Minister, Hon. W Chitando. They were warmly welcomed by MMCZ Board Chair, Mr. J. Chininga, and Acting General Manager, Dr. N.J. Moyo who took time to walk the President and Minister through the extensive work the Corporation is doing to preserve mineral value and plug mineral leakages. MMCZ co-exhibited under the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development with other state-owned enterprises (SOEs) under the ministry, including the Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company (ZCDC), Zimbabwe School of Mines, Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ), and Defold (Pvt) Limited. The Mine Entra exhibition has grown to become a premier platform for the mining industry in Zimbabwe, attracting visitors from across the sector, including mining professionals, policymakers, and other key players. It provides a unique opportunity for stakeholders to network, negotiate deals, and stay ahead of industry trends. MMCZ's participation in Mine Entra 2024 demonstrates its commitment to promoting the country's mining sector and connecting with key stakeholders. With its rich mineral resources and growing mining industry, Zimbabwe is poised for significant economic growth, and MMCZ is at the forefront of this development.

The Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) recently hosted a joint annual staff wellness day, promoting a healthy work-life balance and fostering camaraderie among employees. The event was a resounding success, with the participation of external health service providers and sister organizations. MMCZ was joined by the following State-Owned Entities under the purview of the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development: i. Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company (ZCDC). ii. Zimbabwe Mining Development Corporation (ZMDC). iii. Minerals Production Company (MPC). Key Highlights The wellness day featured a range of activities, including: - Health screenings and consultations with external health service providers, such as Old Mutual Holdings and Doves. - Promotions of health beverage programs by Delta Corporation Zimbabwe. - A friendly sports tournament, which saw MMCZ take home the netball and tug-of-war trophies, while ZCDC won the football and major athletics events. The volleyball trophy was lifted by ZCDC. Sponsored by ZCDC, the revolving trophies for all fun activities will be up for grabs at next year’s wellness event which promises to be bigger and better. Looking Ahead The joint annual staff wellness day was a huge success, and MMCZ looks forward to hosting an even bigger and better event next year. The Corporation remains committed to prioritizing staff welfare and promoting a healthy, happy, and productive work environment.

The Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) recently participated in the 22ND Africa Down Under (ADU) conference held in Perth, Australia, from September 4-6, 2024. Led by MMCZ Acting General Manager Dr. N.J. Moyo, the Zimbabwean delegation – comprising of Ministry of Mines and Mining Development representatives – leveraged the event to network with potential investors, industry leaders, and stakeholders shaping Africa's mining future. The conference provided invaluable insights into the latest developments in African mining, investment opportunities, and industry expectations. Key takeaways included the need to address investor concerns around security, licensing, digitalization, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues. Africa Down Under Conference: A Premier Forum for African Mining The Africa Down Under conference is the premier forum for fostering Australian-African business and government relations. The event features a robust combination of live presentations, face-to-face meetings, and networking. This year's conference featured over 50 presentations and breakout sessions, including 13 ministerial presentations. MMCZ's participation in the Africa Down Under conference demonstrates its commitment to promoting Zimbabwe's mining sector and attracting investment to the country.