Based on a research report from CITIC Securities, on February 25, Zimbabwe's Ministry of Mines announced a prohibition on the export of lithium ore. This move is intended to tighten control over mineral resources and foster the in-depth processing of mineral products within the country. In 2025, China sources 19% of its lithium concentrate imports from Zimbabwe. Moreover, projections indicate that by 2026, Zimbabwe's lithium resource output will constitute 12% of the worldwide total. The implementation of this export ban is set to intensify the short-term scarcity of lithium carbonate supply in China, likely propelling lithium prices upward. Consequently, it is prudent to keep a close watch on entities that remain unscathed by this policy shift.
