Zimbabwe’s lithium sector generated US$746 million in export earnings during the first half of 2026, underscoring the country’s growing role in the global battery supply chain.
Spodumene concentrates accounted for the bulk of the revenue at US$672.8 million, while lithium sulphate contributed US$73.2 million, according to data reported by NewZimbabwe.com.
The figures highlight a dual-track export profile: raw ore remains the primary revenue driver, but the sulphate segment is gaining traction.
This aligns with the structural shift previously noted in Handelsavisen coverage, where Zimbabwe shipped its first batches of lithium sulphate, marking a move from raw ore exports to processed battery materials.
The expansion of processing capacity is part of a broader strategy to capture more value domestically.
Industry stakeholders have linked these developments to the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), which prioritizes infrastructure and industrialization as catalysts for economic transformation.
The ability to export sulphate rather than just concentrates suggests that domestic refining projects are reaching commercial scale.