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Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe, 18 July 2025

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Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe, 18 July 2025

Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe today, 18 July 2025, from the official gold buyer and exporter Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR).

SG 90% and ABOVE US$100.82/g.
SG ABOVE 89% BUT BELOW 90% US$99.75/g.
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$98.69/g.
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$97.62/g.
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$96.02/g.

Fire Assay CASH $101.35/g.

NB: Fire Assay cash price is for gold above 100g; no sample is deducted.

A sample of not more than 10g is deducted for the Fire Assay Transfer price.

A 2% royalty is charged on all deposits (Small-scale miners).

A 5% royalty is set for Primary Producers.

Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe, 17 July 2025

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Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe, 17 July 2025

Gold buying prices per gram in Zimbabwe today, 17 July 2025, from the official gold buyer and exporter Fidelity Gold Refinery (FGR).

SG 90% and ABOVE US$100.98/g.
SG ABOVE 89% BUT BELOW 90% US$99.91/g.
SG ABOVE 80% BUT BELOW 85% US$98.84/g.
SG ABOVE 75% BUT BELOW 80% US$97.77/g.
SAMPLE BELOW 10g BUT ABOVE 5g US$96.17/g.

Fire Assay CASH $101.51/g.

NB: Fire Assay cash price is for gold above 100g; no sample is deducted.

A sample of not more than 10g is deducted for the Fire Assay Transfer price.

A 2% royalty is charged on all deposits (Small-scale miners).

A 5% royalty is set for Primary Producers.

“We Need Enabling Laws, Not half baked statutes” – Nyenje

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“We Need Enabling Laws, Not half baked statutes” – Nyenje

Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) Midlands Province Chairman, Makumba Nyenje, has raised a red flag over the proposed Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill, warning that while it makes progress in recognising small-scale mining, it still fails to support the sector with practical laws, enabling, and inclusive, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

Speaking to Mining Zimbabwe on the sidelines of the Planet Gold Zimbabwe workshop on the Bill, Nyenje said the Bill must be revised to reflect the realities and struggles of small-scale miners—the majority of whom are Zimbabwean citizens operating with limited capital and facing regulatory hurdles that often favour large-scale players.

“We are happy that the Bill has finally acknowledged small-scale mining as a growing industry. But we are disappointed that it imposes many restrictions and misses key areas that must empower us. A small-scale miner cannot be treated like a multinational. We are still growing,” said Nyenje.

Possession Laws: Criminalising Miners for Owning Minerals

One of the most glaring issues, Nyenje said, is the criminalisation of mineral possession, particularly gold. Despite miners being encouraged to sell to Fidelity Gold Refinery, possession of gold without immediate documentation can still lead to arrest and prosecution, even in legitimate circumstances.

“Possession must not be a criminal offence—smuggling should be. If I pick a stone with lithium or gold-bearing ore, should I be jailed for that? The law must differentiate between criminal intent and legitimate small-scale mining activity,” he argued.

He called for clear legal protections for miners who operate within formal channels and deliver to authorised buyers.

Ore Movement Restrictions: A Barrier to Production

Nyenje also criticised the current law requiring ore movement permits, saying it creates unnecessary bureaucracy and opens room for extortion and corruption.

“If I have a registered claim and I want to send ore to a nearby mill, why should I need a permit? We need fewer restrictions, not more. The law should make mining easier, not more difficult,” he said.

He proposed a digital self-declaration system to maintain traceability without burdening miners.

Clear Definition of Small-Scale Mining and Access to Critical Minerals

Nyenje urged lawmakers to clearly define what constitutes a small-scale miner, including claim size, production volume, and capital level. The current Bill, he said, is vague and could allow large actors to exploit provisions meant for genuine small operators.

“Small-scale miners should have clear guidelines. The law should also tell us which minerals we can mine. Some should be reserved for citizens or small players, especially in critical areas like lithium, chrome, and gold,” he said.

He added that Zimbabwe needs a published list of critical minerals, with transparent rules on who can mine or process them.

Provincial Representation and Decentralised Dispute Resolution

The ZMF Midlands chair also raised concerns about the composition of the Mining Affairs Board, calling for full provincial representation of small-scale miners, not just a token presence.

“We want small-scale miners from every province to have a voice—or at least dispute resolution committees that work at provincial level. Right now, it’s too centralised and far removed from the realities on the ground,” Nyenje said.

Computerisation and Paperless Licensing

While the Bill references the digital Mining Cadastre System, Nyenje said more must be done to eliminate excessive paperwork, which continues to clog the system.

“We want a modern system. The Cadastre must work, but also remove these manual letters, physical files, and gatekeeping. It’s 2025—we need to apply, renew, and pay online,” he said.

Inclusivity: Women, Youth, and PWDs Must Be Recognised

Nyenje stressed the need for the Bill to include specific provisions that empower women, youth, and persons with disabilities (PWDs), who often face cultural and financial barriers to entering the mining sector.

“These are the people doing the work. The law must see them, support them, and create opportunities for them,” he said.

Recognition of ZMF and Other Industry Bodies

Finally, the ZMF Midlands leader called for formal recognition of representative bodies such as the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) and the Chamber of Mines within the Bill, particularly in governance, dispute resolution, and policy-making.

“ZMF represents the voices of small-scale miners. We must have a place in law—not just as stakeholders, but as partners in regulation and development,” he said.

A Law That Must Work for Zimbabweans

Nyenje’s remarks reflect growing discontent within the ASM sector, even as the government pushes to reform mining legislation. With small-scale miners contributing more than 60% of Zimbabwe’s gold output, many believe the law must protect and empower them, not punish or exclude them.

“We are not asking for special treatment. We are asking for fair treatment. We want a law that allows small-scale Zimbabwean miners to grow, formalise, and contribute more to the economy,” Nyenje concluded.

Planet Gold Pushes for Safer Alternatives in Gold Processing

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Planet Gold Pushes for Safer Alternatives in Gold Processing

Zimbabwe’s small-scale miners are on the verge of a major shift in how they extract gold. Through the Planet Gold Zimbabwe initiative, the government is rolling out new technologies and support structures to eliminate mercury use in artisanal gold mining—part of Zimbabwe’s commitment to the Minamata Convention.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

Speaking to Mining Zimbabwe on the sidelines of the Planet Gold Zimbabwe Mines and Minerals Bill analysis workshop held at Cresta Oasis Hotel on Wednesday, Planet Gold Zimbabwe Project Manager Ms. Nyaradzo Mtonhori explained that the initiative is being driven by the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife. Their shared goal is to reduce mercury use by over 4.85 tonnes within five years.

“We are working to reduce mercury use through introducing mercury-free gold processing technologies, while also easing the path to formalisation for artisanal and small-scale gold miners (ASGM),” said Mtonhori.

According to Mtonhori, the project is grounded in Zimbabwe’s National Action Plan on Mercury, which flows from the Minamata Convention—an international agreement designed to reduce and eliminate mercury emissions. Zimbabwe became a signatory in 2021.

So far, Planet Gold has completed a site profiling exercise in 11 mining districts, assessing the types of ore and mining activity taking place. Through this process, the project is identifying which districts are best suited for the different mercury-free technologies being piloted. The National Metallurgical Laboratory is currently analysing samples to determine how new technologies can be aligned with the unique conditions of each district.

“Our aim is to match ore characteristics to mercury-free processing techniques. Once that is done, we will begin introducing the new technologies and train miners on how to use them. Our target is not just the equipment, but a complete behavioural change,” she said.

She noted that while cyanide has been considered as an alternative, the project’s preference is for chemical-free solutions that don’t present new hazards.

“Cyanide is another hazardous chemical, so we are aiming to avoid replacing one problem with another. That’s why our approach leans towards gravity-based methods and cleaner options,” she said.

The rollout of mercury-free processing technologies is expected to begin next year, but implementation of the overall programme has already started. “We started implementation in November last year and we’re now seven months in. We are ahead of other countries running Planet Gold programmes,” Mtonhori noted.

One of the biggest concerns raised by small-scale miners is whether they will be able to afford or manage these new technologies. Many miners rely on mercury because it is simple and accessible. Planet Gold Zimbabwe’s approach is therefore centred on gradual transition and training.

“We are not imposing anything on miners,” said Mtonhori. “We want to work with them, let them see the benefits of switching away from mercury. This includes showing how safer methods can actually increase gold recovery.”

In recent consultations facilitated by the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF), the feedback has been supportive, but caution remains. Many miners say they are still waiting to see how the technologies will perform in practice.

ZMF CEO Mr. Wellington Takavarasha acknowledged the importance of the initiative. “We support the reduction of mercury use, especially if safer and more efficient technologies are made available. But it must be done in a way that supports our miners, not criminalises them,” he said.

Mr. Takavarasha warned against approaching the transition as a top-down directive. “We don’t want a situation where miners are arrested for using mercury while the alternatives are not yet available or affordable,” he said.

He also raised concerns about duplication of institutions and overregulation. “We want to see a well-coordinated effort between government departments, Planet Gold, and miners. This is not just an environmental matter—it’s a livelihoods matter,” he said.

The Planet Gold Zimbabwe project, with a budget of over US$24 million, is one of the country’s largest donor-backed mining initiatives. If successfully implemented, it will place Zimbabwe among global leaders in responsible small-scale mining.

Mtonhori believes that Zimbabwe has the potential to become a model of safe, formalised small-scale mining in Africa. “We have a strong technical team, committed partners, and most importantly, miners who are ready to learn and adapt. The signs are positive,” she said.

As the pressure to phase out mercury increases globally, Zimbabwe’s early adaptation gives it a competitive advantage. But for the initiative to succeed, it must keep its focus on the people who matter most: the miners.

“The message we want to send to miners is that this change is for their safety, their families, and their future. We are not here to take mining away from them. We are here to help them do it better,” said Mtonhori.

For now, all eyes are on the upcoming rollout of the mercury-free processing systems. If the uptake is high and the results meet expectations, it could reshape Zimbabwe’s small-scale mining sector—and create a new chapter of responsible resource development in the country.

Kuvimba Shifts to Open Pit for Darwendale Platinum Project as Prices Surge

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Kuvimba Shifts to Open Pit for Darwendale Platinum Project as Prices Surge

Zimbabwe’s sovereign wealth fund-owned mining group, Kuvimba Mining House, has dramatically restructured its long-stalled Darwendale platinum project, opting for an open-pit development instead of the previously planned expensive underground model, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

The move, driven by soaring platinum prices, is expected to accelerate a project once envisioned as the country’s largest mine.

A Shift from “Big Bang” to Pragmatic Start

Initially conceived in 2014 by then-President Robert Mugabe and Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Darwendale was meant to be a flagship underground mine, requiring around US$450 million in capital. However, the project faltered in 2022 following the withdrawal of its Russian partner amid slumping platinum prices.

Kuvimba CEO Trevor Barnard said the company is now adopting a more modest, phased approach: launching with an open-pit mine at around US$50 million, funded through its parent, the Mutapa Investment Fund, internally generated cash, and strategic borrowing.

“That is quite a change in scope and phasing,” said Barnard. “It’s very difficult to raise US$450 million specifically for a platinum project in Zimbabwe.”

Riding the Wave of Rebounding Platinum Prices

The timing of this strategy is no coincidence. Platinum prices surged a remarkable 36% in Q2, capped off with a 28% jump in June alone, topping US$1,430/oz—the highest monthly level since 1986.

Analysts highlight the perfect storm of robust Chinese demand, constrained output in South Africa, and speculative market activity as key drivers of the rebound. These market dynamics have reignited interest in projects that were previously shelved.

Regional Momentum in Platinum

Kuvimba isn’t alone in capitalising on this upswing. Tharisa PLC, which delayed its US$391 million Karo PGM project in Zimbabwe during the price downturn, recently confirmed it is accelerating final development following renewed market confidence.

Building on a Track Record in Gold

While awaiting the full-scale revival of Darwendale, Kuvimba has built credibility through its gold operations—producing 116,000 oz in 2024 from three functional gold mines. This steady performance strengthens its balance sheet and gives the company greater flexibility to support Darwendale’s new phased model.

A Model for Future Resilience

Kuvimba’s revised strategy offers a template for financial prudence in Zimbabwe’s mining sector. By aligning project pacing with revenue cycles and domestic investment, the company lowers its exposure to debt and external pressure.

“It’s extremely challenging to secure US$450 million specifically for platinum projects in Zimbabwe,” remarked Barnard.

As platinum prices continue to surge, Zimbabwe’s mining sector is entering a period of renewed opportunity. But success hinges on practical execution. The initial US$50 million investment must deliver rapid operational gains and investor confidence, lest the project falter again.

Kuvimba’s Darwendale pivot could signal the return of Zimbabwe as a serious player in platinum mining—but only if prudent planning, adaptability, and strong financing come together to deliver results.

Chinese Investors Blame Bureaucracy for Mining Violations

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Chinese investors operating in Zimbabwe’s mining sector are blaming red tape and bureaucratic delays for some of the violations that have drawn sharp criticism from the government.

By Ryan Chigoche

They argue that, in many cases, delays in acquiring work permits and getting projects operational are forcing companies into non-compliance.

Speaking at the China-Zimbabwe Business Cooperation Roundtable held in Harare recently, Steve Ke Zhao, CEO of the China-Zimbabwe Exchange Centre, said that while the government’s concerns are valid, Zimbabwe’s own administrative inefficiencies are frustrating genuine efforts by investors.

“Unfortunately, at the moment, Chinese companies are facing a lot of trouble. After investing huge amounts like US$5 million or US$10 million, they’re facing challenges,” Zhao said.

“Some get ZIDA certificates but can’t get work permits. Machinery is sitting idle. It can’t be installed. They can’t operate. They end up doing something illegal—not because they want to, but because the system delays,” he added.

His comments follow growing public and government frustration over the conduct of some Chinese-owned firms, particularly in the gold and granite mining sectors, where allegations of environmental damage, labour violations, and cultural insensitivity have persisted.

Also speaking at the roundtable, Tafadzwa Muguti, Secretary for Presidential Affairs in the Office of the President and Cabinet, delivered a stinging rebuke. He accused certain Chinese companies of operating outside formal structures, violating laws, and disregarding Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage.

“We are noticing that some Chinese companies are going and digging up our ancestors’ graves to extract granite or gold. There are some of them picking up the bones, putting them aside, and starting to dig. That’s the greatest disrespect to any person, even in your culture,” Muguti said.

Authorities have also raised the alarm over foreign nationals, particularly Chinese visitors, entering the country on tourist visas and later engaging in business activities without proper permits. To address this, Muguti announced that all Chinese visa and investment applications would now require a letter of acknowledgment from the Chinese Ambassador—a move aimed at strengthening oversight.

Zhao, however, pushed back on the narrative that all misconduct is intentional. He said many Chinese investors face delays even after obtaining licenses from the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA), leading to stalled projects and, in some cases, unintentional breaches of the law.

He also acknowledged that some Chinese investors arrive without a clear understanding of Zimbabwe’s legal, labour, or cultural expectations.

To bridge that gap, his organisation has begun running workshops in partnership with local banks and regulatory agencies.

Meanwhile, the government has stressed that compliance alone is no longer sufficient.

Authorities want mining companies to support Zimbabwe’s industrialisation agenda by adding value to the country’s mineral resources.

A ban on raw mineral exports—especially lithium—is now being enforced as part of this beneficiation strategy.

The recently tabled Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill is expected to give legal force to this beneficiation drive by tying licence approvals and renewals to value-addition targets.

As Zimbabwe attempts to balance its push for accountability with the need to attract long-term foreign capital, Zhao’s remarks underscore a growing tension between policy ambition and investor frustration.

Whether the two sides can find common ground—before delays lead to further non-compliance or disinvestment—remains to be seen.

Caledonia Raises 2025 Output Target Following a Record Q2 at Blanket Mine

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Caledonia Raises 2025 Output Target Following a Record Q2 at Blanket Mine

Caledonia Mining Corporation Plc has reported a strong Q2 2025 at its Blanket Mine in Zimbabwe, delivering 21,070 ounces of gold—a new second-quarter record, up from 20,773 ounces in Q2 2024.

By Ryan Chigoche

This impressive production performance follows H1 2025 output of 39,741 ounces, a 5.1% increase over the 37,823 ounces produced in H1 2024.

Based on these results, Caledonia has raised its 2025 gold production guidance to 75,500–79,500 ounces.

Commenting on the results, Chief Executive Officer Mark Learmonth said:

“Production in the first half of 2025 was excellent and has exceeded our expectations. As a result of this strong performance, we are increasing our annual production guidance. This performance is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team.

“Blanket Mine continues to provide a solid foundation for growth. As we move forward, we are confident that it will continue to be a cornerstone of our success, driving value for our shareholders.”

All figures are reported on a 100% basis and reflect final assays from the refiner.

Blanket Mine continues to underpin Caledonia’s Zimbabwe operations, reinforcing its status as a cornerstone asset in the company’s portfolio.

Located in Zimbabwe’s Matabeleland South Province, Blanket Mine is one of the country’s longest-running underground gold operations. Acquired by Caledonia Mining Corporation Plc in 2010, the mine has steadily increased production through a combination of exploration, underground development, and process optimisation.

The mine exploits a series of gold-bearing quartz veins hosted within the Sebakwe Greenstone Belt, with mineralisation typically occurring in narrow, steeply dipping lodes. Blanket operates multiple underground stopes accessed via a decline system, supported by modern mining and processing infrastructure.

Meanwhile, shares in Caledonia Mining were up 4.3% at 1,590.00 pence in London on Wednesday morning.

Mining sector refines young talent – its most valuable resource

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Mining sector refines young talent – its most valuable resource

The mining industry is reimagining itself, empowering the youth as a precious asset for the future. Across the sector, stakeholders have committed to attracting young people and unlocking their full potential.

As a critical economic sector committed to inclusive growth, the mining industry is evolving rapidly, building partnerships across the economy and across society to unlock value and opportunities for all role players. Clear evidence of this is the growing cohort of young people in the industry.

This year’s flagship mining-sector event, Investing in African Mining Indaba 2025, saw a strong youth presence, with an entire day of the event dedicated to a Young Leaders Programme. The programme featured a keynote speech by South African Deputy Minister of Minerals and Petroleum Resources Phumzile Mgcina, as well as panel discussions and networking sessions for current and prospective young mining professionals.

Well-attended panel discussions saw young Africans sharing their vision for the industry, and how to unlock the continent’s full youth potential. A group of more than 10 PhD students in mining-related fields were also integrated into the programme, bringing more youth perspectives to the event.

‘Speak our language’

A recurring theme has been that to empower young people in the sector, mining must speak the language of young Africans, on issues they can relate to. In many cases, that is about inclusivity and sustainability.

“Young professionals are looking for purpose-driven careers that offer impact, growth, innovation and inclusivity,” says recent mining graduate Nomvula Mahlangu, currently completing her internship at Sibanye Stillwater’s Gold Division.

Mahlangu, 26, believes the mining sector can bring more young people into the industry by continuing to create flexible learning pathways, mentorship structures, and platforms for innovation and leadership.

The broader industry has shown growing enthusiasm to create such platforms. The R400-million Junior Mining Exploration Fund, for instance, established by the Industrial Development Corporation, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources and The Council for Geoscience, gives junior mining businesses access to significant funding.

In terms of the culture of the industry, Mahlangu says there has been some progress in attracting young people into the business and hearing their voices.

“I’ve been fortunate to access platforms like AfriMine and the Mining Indaba Influencer initiative, where my voice has been heard, valued, and supported. However, in traditional spaces, young professionals still have to prove themselves before being taken seriously,” she says. “The sector is learning to trust fresh perspectives, but we must continue building inclusive environments that actively invite young professionals and listen to them.”

Mahlangu sees a growing number of young people entering the industry, but says they are yet to reach the level of representation where they can meaningfully start shaping the future of the sector.

“There is a visible rise in young professionals entering the mining industry — from technical roles to policy and ESG. However, we haven’t reached a critical mass yet,” she says. “We need stronger pipelines for young talent, mentorship programmes, and youth involvement in innovation hubs and industry strategy.”

‘Tell mining’s positive stories’

Echoing Mahlangu’s views about purpose-driven careers is Murendeni Makhado, 35, a corporate water specialist at Impala Platinum Holdings.

“Young people want to work in environments that are inclusive and forward-thinking, and which offer opportunities for growth and leadership,” she says.

Makhado says that to truly attract young people to the industry, it must use compelling storytelling that clearly describes the value of mining in society and its role in the renewable and technology economy.

“The mining sector is evolving and it does create positive opportunities, but there is a gap in how it communicates these opportunities,” says Makhado. “To attract more young talent, the industry must invest in storytelling, mentorship, and platforms that showcase the meaningful impact mining can have on communities and the ecosystems.”

Makhado says her role in the water and ESG space has given her a good insight into the positive impacts that mining can have.

 “For young people passionate about sustainability, engineering, or community development, mining provides a platform to make a real difference,” she says. “It’s an industry where you can see the tangible results of your work, influence policy, and drive change at scale.”

An industry vision

Both Makhado and Mahlangu are optimistic about the industry and its moves to integrate young people into its strategic structures. The two young mining professionals are part of the Mining Indaba 2026 Influencer Campaign — an initiative to amplify authentic voices shaping the future of mining in Africa.

The campaign aims to showcase stories of innovation, sustainability and impact across the mining value chain, in line with the Mining Indaba 2026 theme: “Stronger Together: Progress Through Partnerships.”

““The next generation of mining professionals aren’t just the future of mining, they are the game-changers who are driving its evolution,” explains Mining Indaba’s content and communities director, Laura Nicholson. “Mining Indaba offers the youth platforms to empower emerging talent to learn, experiment, and articulate a bold vision for the industry. In challenging periods, new perspectives are a powerful investment in a future built on ingenuity, resilience and ambition.”

As for what that vision would look like, Makhado looks forward to building a mining industry that is regenerative, inclusive, and deeply integrated with the global sustainability agenda.

“My contribution lies in advancing water stewardship, ESG integration and cross-sector collaboration”, she says. “The goal is to ensure that mining not only extracts value, but also creates it – socially, environmentally and economically.”

For Mahlangu, mining is about powering economies, advancing technology, and creating real-world impact.

“Mining can uplift communities, fund education, and support green transitions. It offers a wealth of careers – everything from medicine to robotics and data analytics, engineering and ESG to tech and community development. For young people who want to be part of a global, future-facing, and diverse industry, mining offers endless possibilities.”

 

Ten Highest Paying Minerals for Artisanal and Small-Scale Miners in 2025

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Ten Highest Paying Minerals for Artisanal and Small-Scale Miners in 2025

In 2025, Artisanal and Small-scale miners (ASM) continue to play a vital role in global mineral production. While still frowned upon, the sector plays a critical role producing 60% of the total gold output in countries like Zimbabwe.

While ASM operations typically lack large-scale machinery or heavy capital investment, there are still highly profitable minerals accessible to small-scale operators—with many offering strong market prices, low barriers to entry, and government support for formalisation.

Here are the Top 10 Highest Paying Minerals that ASM miners can profitably target in 2025.

1. Gold

  • Avg Price: $2,300–$2,450/oz

  • Why it’s valuable: Gold remains the most accessible and profitable mineral for ASM globally. It is easy to process using traditional methods and has a ready market with high global demand. Many governments support ASM gold formalisation.

2. Tantalite / Coltan

  • Avg Price: $120–$150/kg (depending on grade)

  • Use: Mobile phones, electronics, defence

  • Why it’s valuable: Found in pegmatite zones in Central and Southern Africa, tantalum-rich ores are in high demand for tech. ASM miners in countries like Zimbabwe and the DRC often dominate this sector.

3. Lithium (Petalite, Spodumene in Ore Form)

  • Avg Price: $400–$800/tonne (ore)

  • Why it’s valuable: As EV demand rises, ASM lithium producers are gaining access to global supply chains. Zimbabwe’s Bikita and Kamativi regions offer opportunities, though beneficiation is done externally.

4. Gemstones (Emeralds, Rubies, Sapphires)

  • Price: Varies; High-quality stones can fetch thousands per carat

  • Why it’s valuable: Small-scale miners in countries like Zambia, Mozambique, and Madagascar can extract high-value gems with hand tools. Market access remains a challenge, but margins are strong.

5. Chrome Ore

  • Avg Price: $200–$250/tonne (depending on grade)

  • Why it’s valuable: Easily mined near surface and used in steel production, chrome is a staple for small-scale miners in Zimbabwe and South Africa. High-grade lumpy ore brings premium prices.

6. Wolframite (Tungsten Ore)

  • Avg Price: $20,000–$25,000/tonne (WO₃ content)

  • Why it’s valuable: In demand for aerospace and defense, tungsten is mined artisanally in Rwanda and Uganda. Processing is basic, but value is high due to scarcity.

7. Manganese

  • Avg Price: $200–$300/tonne (depending on grade)

  • Why it’s valuable: Used in battery tech and steel alloys, manganese can be surface mined. ASM operations in Ghana and Zimbabwe are increasingly tapping into this market.

8. Copper Ore (High-Grade Surface Ore)

  • Avg Price: $8,000–$9,500/tonne (refined equivalent)

  • Why it’s valuable: Copper prices remain strong due to green tech demand. In countries like Zambia and DRC, ASM players access shallow ore bodies or mine waste piles.

9. Fluorspar

  • Avg Price: $300–$500/tonne (depending on grade)

  • Use: Chemicals, steelmaking, refrigeration

  • Why it’s valuable: Found in areas like Kenya and South Africa, fluorspar can be extracted by small-scale miners with proper market linkage and beneficiation support.

10. Quartz (for Silicon and Jewelry)

  • Avg Price: $80–$200/tonne (industrial), more for gem-grade

  • Why it’s valuable: Though not always top-tier in value, high-purity quartz is critical for silicon production and solar tech. Gem-quality quartz also sells well in niche markets.

In 2025, the global market continues to reward ASM miners who focus on minerals tied to clean energy, tech, and infrastructure development. However, profitability is not just about high prices—it also depends on access to fair markets, proper safety practices, and formalisation.

With rising interest in mineral traceability and ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) standards, ASM communities that organise and align with these goals are likely to see higher returns and global partnerships.

As China’s Rare Earth Exports Jump Over 21%, US Pricing System Aims to Break Beijing’s Grip

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As China’s Rare Earth Exports Jump Over 21%, US Pricing System Aims to Break Beijing’s Grip

A new chapter is unfolding in the global rare earths race as China’s rare earth exports surged in June, signalling a potential trade war thaw, just as the United States prepares to launch a rare earth pricing system designed to challenge Beijing’s longstanding dominance in the critical minerals market, Mining Zimbabwe can report.

By Rudairo Mapuranga

According to China’s customs data, rare earth exports rose to 5,598 metric tons in June 2025, up 21.6% from the previous month and 13.3% year-on-year. This spike in exports may reflect easing trade tensions and renewed industrial demand amid global clean energy and defence supply chain pressures. China, which controls over 85% of global rare earth refining capacity, has long been the world’s dominant force in the market for these vital materials used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, and military systems.

However, across the Pacific, the United States is moving aggressively to reduce dependence on Chinese supply chains. According to recent reports, US-based Rare Earths Inc. will begin publishing weekly prices for key rare earth elements such as neodymium, praseodymium, dysprosium, and terbium. This pricing system, the first of its kind in the West, is expected to bring transparency and reduce volatility in rare earth markets currently influenced heavily by Chinese pricing structures.

“This is not just about pricing—it’s about sovereignty and supply chain security,” a Rare Earths Inc. executive told reporters. The company believes that transparent, independent pricing will help level the playing field for Western miners and manufacturers, while attracting investment into alternative supply chains outside of China.

The US initiative is being closely watched by allies, including the European Union and Japan, who have also faced supply risks due to China’s strategic control over rare earth exports. Historically, Beijing has restricted exports of these minerals during times of geopolitical tension, such as in the 2010 dispute with Japan and, more recently, during escalating trade frictions with Washington.

Despite the current jump in Chinese exports, many analysts see the move as China regaining leverage, rather than relaxing its grip. By maintaining control over pricing and supply, China can continue to influence global technology supply chains, even as countries like the US attempt to diversify.

A Global Shift in Critical Mineral Strategies

The global battle over rare earths reflects the broader geopolitical realignment around critical minerals essential to the green energy transition and national security. For developing countries like Zimbabwe, which also hosts rare earth deposits, the power struggle between China and the US presents both risks and opportunities.

Industry experts say Zimbabwe should now prioritise transparent licensing, beneficiation policies, and global partnerships that allow it to leverage its rare earth potential without falling prey to the dominance of a single power bloc.

A Market in Motion

As China’s rare earth exports rise and the US moves to implement a Western pricing benchmark, the global market for critical minerals is entering a transformative phase. Whether this shift leads to a true rebalancing of power—or simply a new form of competition—remains to be seen.

What is clear, however, is that control over rare earths is no longer just about economics—it is about global influence, national security, and the energy future of the planet.

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