Zimbabwe boasts a rich and diverse geological landscape that has earned it a prominent place on the global mining map. With close to 40 different minerals including abundant deposits of gold, platinum, diamonds, lithium, coal, chrome, nickel, and a host of other valuable minerals the country stands as an attractive location for investors seeking emerging opportunities in the mining sector. Its vast reserves and untapped potential make it a true mining powerhouse, offering a wealth of resources that continue to attract the attention of investors worldwide. From the renowned Witwatersrand Basin to the Marange diamond fields, Zimbabwe’s geological wealth is a testament to the boundless possibilities that await those who choose to invest in this thriving sector.

Zimbabwe is fully committed to attracting and supporting mining investors. We have implemented investor-friendly policies, streamlined regulations, and offer attractive fiscal incentives to ensure a smooth and profitable investment experience. Foreign investors are allowed to own 100% shareholding for mining operations in all minerals in the country. There are no restrictions on shareholding for foreigners.

The mining sector accounts for 12% of the country´s GDP, making it the second most important sector of the national economy. The Zimbabwean government expects the mining sector to generate US$ 12 billion in 2023 Growth in the industry is driven by:

• Gold: Gold exports, Zimbabwe´s top mineral export, increased by 42% between 2020 and 2021 to reach US$ 1.7 billion as a result of improved gold output. Such growth is expected to keep its momentum as new and existing investors are exploring new investment opportunities. Caledonia Mining, backed by South African investors, is looking to expand its existing operations and develop the Bilboes project into what could be Zimbabwe´s biggest gold mine.

• PMG: Zimbabwe has the 3rd largest reserves of platinum group metals in the world with approximately 2.8 billion tons of PMG. PMGs are expected to grow significantly with three projects under development at the Darwendale, Karo and Mupani prospects.

• Lithium: Zimbabwe is also home to the largest deposits of lithium in Africa and a nascent lithium mining market. The Bikita Minerals Mine holds the world´s largest-known deposits of lithium at approximately 11 million tons. Recent investment in Zimbabwean lithium projects has positioned the country to become a key player in the global lithium-ion battery supply chain. Chinese mining companies are the main drivers of development in the region with Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt, Sinomine Resource Group, Chengxin Lithium Group, Yahua Group and Canmax Technologies all investing in, purchasing, or developing lithium projects.

• Chrome: Zimbabwe has 80% of the world resource of metallurgical chrome (chromite), mainly on the Great Dyke.

• Steel: Zimbabwe is promoting the Mahize integrated steel plant, the largest in the continent, which will produce 1.2 million tonnes of steel per year.

• Coal: Zimbabwe is home to large reserves of coal, over 29 known coal localities with an estimated 26 billion tons coal suitable for thermal and metallurgical applications

• Diamonds: Zimbabwe is aiming to produce 7 million carats of diamonds in 2023 representing over US$ 1 billion revenue.

In addition to mineral extraction, Zimbabwe is looking to develop mineral processing and value addition projects in lithium, coal, and iron industry. Since Zimbabwe is importing entirely everything with respect to machinery there are opportunities for dealerships to set up shop in the country for convenience especially for supplying new machinery, servicing, and maintenance of already existing equipment. Zimbabwe is targeting increased mining output on all commercially viable minerals and central to this vision is provision of adequate mining equipment.

1. Prospecting Licence – Ministry of Mines and Mining Development

2. Environmental Impact Assessment Certificate – Environmental Management Agency

3. Certificate of Registration – Ministry of Mines and Mining Development 

• All companies operating in Zimbabwe must honor their tax obligations and should therefore register as a taxpayer with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority. Proof of tax compliance may be requested in the form of a Tax Clearance Certificate issued by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority in the process of acquiring sector-specific permits/approvals or opening a bank account.
• All employers in Zimbabwe must be registered with the National Social Security Authority. Proof of compliance may be requested in the form of a Compliance Certificate issued by the National Social Security Authority. It is also a requirement that all employers register their employees with the National Social Security Authority.