CHINESE embassy in Zimbabwe has warned its nationals and companies to strictly comply with local laws following the government’s decision to suspend exports of raw minerals and lithium concentrates, alongside tighter rules in sectors reserved for locals.

In a statement, the embassy flagged potential risks arising from the policy shift, saying: “The Government of Zimbabwe has recently suspended exports of raw minerals and lithium concentrates, and introduced new regulations concerning reserved sectors.”

Meanwhile, authorities in Zimbabwe say they are not going back on the policy which is aimed at benefitting Zimbabwe from its natural resources with Presidential spokesperson George Charamba writing on X under the handle Jamwanda stating “Zimbabwe will forge ahead determinedly, paying little regard to short-term interests which, until now have stopped the country from enjoying full value and quality jobs.”

The Chinese embassy urged investors to take a cautious approach before committing capital, emphasizing the importance of due diligence. “Prior to making investments in Zimbabwe, investors shall conduct a comprehensive and in-depth assessment of the local business environment, industrial policies and relevant laws and regulations,” the statement said.

The embassy also warned that policy changes could affect operations, advising firms to weigh risks carefully. “They should fully consider various investment and operational risks and make informed decisions so as to avoid losses resulting from government policy changes,” it added.

For those already operating in the country, the embassy stressed strict compliance and stronger risk management. “In the course of production and business operations in Zimbabwe, Chinese enterprises and nationals shall strictly abide by local laws and regulations, adopt proactive risk prevention and control measures, and protect their legitimate rights and interests through legal channels,” the statement said.

The advisory comes as Zimbabwe pushes to increase value addition in its mining sector, with a particular focus on lithium, a mineral that is critical to global battery supply chains.