Ben Xu Says Grand Railway Solution Key to Efficient Steel, Mineral Exports
Dinson Iron and Steel Company (DISCO) Chief Executive Officer Ben Xu has called for urgent investment and coordination in Zimbabwe’s railway and logistics infrastructure, warning that the country’s ambitions for industrial growth and mineral exports could stall without efficient transport systems, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
Speaking at the 2025 Chamber of Mines Annual Conference and Exhibition in Victoria Falls, Xu said while Zimbabwe is geographically landlocked, it must become “trade-linked” by creating seamless connections between production hubs and export markets. He warned that the growing output of minerals like iron ore, chrome, lithium, and steel would overwhelm the current logistics systems unless decisive action is taken.
“Zimbabwe is a landlocked country, but we want to make it trade-linked,” said Xu. “To link markets effectively, logistics are critical. Whether it’s steel, lithium, iron ore, or chrome, we need to ensure these products can move efficiently to ports and buyers.”
He stressed that steel in particular requires rail for bulk transportation and efficiency. Without it, Zimbabwe’s largest integrated steel operation could face serious bottlenecks.
“Steel is not a light product. It’s not ideal for long-distance road haulage. To move large volumes efficiently, we must depend on the railway network,” he said.
Xu announced that DISCO has already taken the lead in proposing what he called the “Grand Railway Solution,” a special purpose vehicle (SPV) designed to partner with the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ), government, and other stakeholders in reviving and expanding the national rail network.
“DISCO is not a railway company,” Xu acknowledged, “but we believe NRZ should take the lead, supported by all stakeholders. We have already initiated the Grand Railway Solution and are engaging with government to move the project forward quickly.”
The Grand Railway Solution is expected to improve bulk cargo capacity and reduce the cost of transporting steel and related inputs. Xu emphasised that without rail, the company’s steel exports — and Zimbabwe’s broader industrial ambitions — would be stuck.
“If we cannot move steel efficiently to the neighbouring countries, we will be stuck,” he warned. “That is why a robust transport solution is not just important — it’s critical.”
DISCO’s call aligns with rising concerns in the mining and manufacturing sectors about the state of Zimbabwe’s logistics infrastructure. Several mining executives at the conference, including those from lithium and platinum projects, highlighted the need for dependable freight options as mineral output increases.
Xu’s remarks come as DISCO ramps up production at its $1 billion steel plant in Manhize, with the target of producing 600,000 tonnes of steel annually. The success of this mega project — one of Zimbabwe’s flagship industrial ventures — hinges heavily on cost-effective transport.
Industry analysts believe an efficient rail system could save mining companies millions in transport costs and help Zimbabwe become a regional export hub for minerals and industrial products.
While rail revival has been on the agenda for years, Xu’s proposal may be the catalyst needed to move the needle. With private sector players like DISCO stepping up, the ball is now in the court of NRZ and the government to collaborate and make the Grand Railway Solution a reality.
