The country’s largest platinum miner, Zimplats Holdings Ltd, said it is seeking clarity from the government on a newly announced critical minerals policy framework that lacks detailed implementing regulations, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
In an ASX statement released on Monday, the company said it “notes” the government’s 22 May announcement classifying 14 minerals, including platinum group metals (PGMs), as critical.
“Zimplats expects the Zimbabwean government to provide further details on this policy framework in due course and will provide further updates as required,” the company said.
The miner, which is one of the largest contributors to Zimbabwe’s economy through foreign currency generation, employment and taxes, said it is “actively engaging with authorities to understand the full implications.”
Despite the absence of specific rules, including minimum state shareholding percentages, beneficiation classification tables or transitional export plans, Zimplats struck a constructive note.
“Zimplats fully recognises and supports the Zimbabwean government’s objective of ensuring that the country derives sustainable value from its mineral resources,” the company said.
The miner also acknowledged the strategic importance of PGMs in the global energy transition and their potential to drive inclusive economic growth and industrialisation in Zimbabwe.
Zimplats said it remains one of the country’s largest investors, having made significant long-term investments in local beneficiation, including the development and expansion of processing capacity.
“Over the years, the company has made significant long-term investments in local beneficiation, including the development and expansion of processing capacity, in line with national priorities to move up the value chain,” the statement said.
Ongoing projects, Zimplats added, reflect its commitment to deepening in-country value addition and supporting downstream industries.
The miner said it values the strong and constructive relationship it has built with the Zimbabwean government and other key stakeholders.
“Zimplats remains committed to working in partnership with the Zimbabwean government to support responsible resource management and shared value creation for the benefit of all stakeholders,” the company said.
Industry observers expect the government to release implementing regulations in the coming months, which will provide the clarity that miners like Zimplats are seeking.
