Can Zimbabwe make lithium batteries?

For example, Zimbabwe might produce lithium but making the batteries require other components made from minerals that might not be available in Zimbabwe.

Why is lithium important in Zimbabwe?

Although battery chemistries are evolving, lithium remains an essential base material, and Zimbabwe has some of the world’s largest resources. American and European sanctions have impacted Zimbabwe’s development trajectory, but its lithium resources are proving to be a vital source of income, circumventing American or European influence.

Are Chinese companies Mining lithium in Zimbabwe?

In the last few years, more Chinese companies have acquired lithium mine claims across Zimbabwe and have already started mining operations (Mining Technology 2023). Locals have also joined the ‘lithium rush’ by illegally mining on privately owned lithium claims, although this has led to conflicts (New Zimbabwe, 05 January 2023).

Is Zimbabwe a lithium producer?

Huayou and Tsingshan didn’t respond to request for comments. Zimbabwe has emerged as a significant producer of lithium in the last two years after a spike in prices through 2021 and 2022 fueled a wave of transactions by Chinese firms, including Chengxin Lithium Group Co. Ltd. and Sinomine Resource Group Co. Ltd.

Can Zimbabwean lithium & Mozambiquan graphite be used for EV Assembly?

Although Zimbabwean lithium and Mozambiquan graphite are currently structured and supplied as separate products, there is a significant opportunity for regional beneficiation driven by EV assembly. The SADC community’s most industrialised economy, South Africa, has a highly developed and sophisticated automotive industry.

Will lithium mining contribute to Zimbabwe's Vision 2030?

Developing countries such as Zimbabwe, which are rich in lithium deposits stand to benefit from the rising demand for CRMs. Lithium mining has the potential to contribute to the country’s Vision 2030 which aims to ‘chart a new transformative and inclusive development agenda’ through its National Development Strategy (NDS1).