Chrome Production Surges by Over 4 Percent
Chrome production in Zimbabwe experienced a notable surge, increasing by 4.37 per cent in 2023 compared to the previous year, as reported by the country’s statistics agency, ZIMSTAT.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
This surge translated to a production of 1,204,755 MT in 2023, compared to 1,154,340 MT in 2022.
Despite facing a 46.62 per cent decline in production during the first quarter of 2023, dropping to 206,354 MT from 386,576 MT in the same period of 2022, the subsequent quarters painted a more optimistic picture.
The second quarter of 2023 witnessed a 14.89 per cent increase in production, with output reaching 274,978 MT, surpassing the 239,333 MT produced during the same quarter in 2022.
Although the third quarter of 2023 saw a decline of 27.88 per cent in production, dropping to 248,176 MT from 344,131 MT in 2022, the final quarter saw an astonishing 158.121 per cent increase. Production skyrocketed to 475,247 MT, a stark comparison to the 184,118 MT produced in the same period of 2022.
Zimbabwe’s chrome industry holds promising prospects, buoyed by several factors. Firstly, the country boasts chrome reserves of significant magnitude, positioning it as a key player in the global chrome market. These reserves provide a solid foundation for sustained production growth and economic development.
Moreover, Zimbabwe’s chrome is renowned for its high grades, boasting purity levels exceeding 46 per cent. This exceptional quality makes Zimbabwean chrome highly sought after on the international stage, attracting interest from various industries worldwide. The premium-grade ensures that Zimbabwe remains a prominent supplier in the competitive global chrome market, fostering economic stability and growth.
The surge in chrome production witnessed in 2023 underscores Zimbabwe’s potential as a major player in the chrome industry. With abundant reserves and top-grade quality, the country is poised to further solidify its position in the global market, driving economic prosperity for years to come.