African Mining August 2025 | Page 15

COUNTRY IN FOCUS • the Base Minerals Export Control Act and others – regulate the marketing and trading of mining proceeds.
In summary, Zimbabwe ' s mining sector operates under a robust framework of Acts and regulations that support its management and economic contribution. Forvis Mazars offers guidance to our clients tailored to their specific requirements on this score.
SM: What are the latest developments in the regulatory environment that encourage investment, are there any expected revisions in this area going forward?
LK: In 2024, the government issued a directive that replaced Exclusive Prospecting Orders( EPO) with Exclusive Exploration Licences( EPL), which would only be issued to deserving entities with a demonstrable history of exploration. The renewal of the existing EPOs will also be subject to the presentation of evidence of exploration work done under the existing EPO. The Minister of Mines and Mining Development confirmed the expected revision of the Mines and Minerals Act, particularly to address the regulation of strategic minerals, environmental degradation and protection of local communities. The Zimbabwe Finance Act Number 13 of 2023, effective from 1 January 2024, entails a 20 % levy on the sale of the mining title, including transactions from the past 10 years.
SM: In your opinion, what are the current trends in opportunities for those wanting to enter the mining sector in Zimbabwe?
LK: Zimbabwe’ s mining sector is highly diversified, with close to 40 different minerals. The predominant minerals include platinum group metals( PGM), chrome, gold, coal, lithium and diamonds. The country boasts the second-largest platinum deposit and high-grade chromium ores in the world, with approximately 2.8 billion tons of PGM and 10 billion tons of chromium ore. Herein lie the huge opportunities for investment.
Opportunities also lie in direct investment in mining and the provision of heavy underground mining machinery and other supplies, as well as transportation infrastructure and materials, including railways, and bespoke power generation alternatives. The government’ s interest in mineral beneficiation also presents opportunities downsteam.
SM: Could you supply our readers with some tips for registering a business in the mining sector in Zimbabwe?
LK: The registration process for mining rights and mining businesses in Zimbabwe is well-structured and should be approached methodically. A key recommendation is to understand the regulatory procedures step by step and to engage with local experts for guidance.
Prospective miners should reach out to the Zimbabwe Investment Development Agency( ZIDA). ZIDA has a one stop shop for prospective investors and is ready to assist prospective investors through the whole investment process.
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