Zimbabwe Unveils New Mining Policy to Expand Ferrochrome Capacity and Stimulate Economy

June 12, 2025 News:

On June 10, 2025, the Zimbabwean Cabinet convened, emphasizing the significance of ferrochrome production to Zimbabwe's economic development. It announced that future new chrome ore mining rights exceeding 100 hectares would be directly linked to enterprise expansion or new smelting capacity projects, aiming to consolidate Zimbabwe's position in the global stainless steel value chain while ensuring greater added value for its chrome ore mineral resources.

Dr. Jenfan Muswere, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, stated at a post-Cabinet briefing in Harare yesterday, "From today onwards, new chrome ore mining rights exceeding 100 hectares must be tied to plans for smelting capacity expansion or new construction. The Cabinet reaffirms the ban on chrome ore exports, emphasizing the need to promote the upgrading of the local ferrochrome industry. The Ministry of Mines will strictly enforce the 'use it or lose it' principle, and all holders of idle mining rights (especially for chrome ore) must immediately respond to the government's requirements."

Currently, Zimbabwe has around 10 ferrochrome producers, with annual capacities ranging from 3,000 mt to 84,000 mt, and a total production of approximately 270,000 mt. Additionally, in February 2025, Zimbabwe advanced the Palm River project, which has an annual ferrochrome production capacity of 100,000 mt and is planned to expand to a capacity of 1 million mt per year, making it the largest producer in the country at that time.