Tanzania is advancing its position in the global lithium market, fueled by government regulations and increasing private investments. A 2023 export ban on raw lithium encourages local beneficiation and the establishment of strategic initiatives. Noteworthy partnerships and investment projects are underway, along with the upcoming African Mining Week, fostering connections within the industry.
Tanzania is enhancing its role in the global lithium market through government initiatives and the active engagement of international companies. A key development is the implementation of a 2023 ban on raw lithium exports intended to promote domestic investments. As a result, there has been significant investment growth, with numerous projects currently in progress.
To attract investments, the Tanzanian government has initiated various strategic programs in the lithium and critical minerals sector. The Tanzania Critical and Strategic Mineral Strategy was launched in late 2024, which is currently in the stakeholder consultation phase. This strategy aims to optimize the management of lithium resources by enhancing exploration, mining operations, and local processing while bolstering supply chains.
In addition, a nationwide High-Resolution Airborne Geophysical Survey was announced by the Geological Survey of Tanzania in October 2024, costing 73 billion TZS. This initiative intends to map mineral resources across the nation, with a target of assessing up to 50% of Tanzania’s market by 2030. Currently, less than 20% of the area has been surveyed, which will boost investments and exploration.
Tanzania is also collaborating with the Minerals Security Partnership, comprising 14 Western nations and the European Commission, to bolster financing, technical expertise, and supply chain management for critical minerals such as lithium and graphite. These collaborative efforts are expected to encourage enhanced investment across the lithium value chain.
Private sector involvement has seen notable advancements with several international mining companies conducting lithium exploration in Tanzania. For instance, in July 2024, the Australian company AustChina completed exploration at its Chenene Project, confirming significant lithium deposits. Similarly, Titanium Lithium from Dubai identified various lithium-bearing minerals at its Titan projects, while U.S.-based CGrowth Capital reported lithium discoveries in the Dodoma Region.
The forthcoming African Mining Week will facilitate connections between Tanzanian lithium developers and potential investors. This event will showcase opportunities within Tanzania and promote overall investment within Africa’s lithium sector. It will occur concurrently with the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town.
The African Mining Week serves as an essential platform for exploring mining opportunities across the continent. Interested parties are encouraged to reach out at [email protected].
Tanzania is making significant strides in the lithium market through strategic initiatives and collaborations aimed at attracting private investment. The government’s recent ban on raw lithium exports, alongside strategic programs such as the Tanzania Critical and Strategic Mineral Strategy, fosters growth in the sector. Private sector engagement further supports this momentum, as various international companies invest in exploration, culminating in the anticipated African Mining Week event that will connect stakeholders in the lithium industry.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
