Zimbabwe said there’s no reason to delay a ban on exports of lithium concentrate that’s scheduled to come into effect in January.

The southern African nation halted shipments of lithium concentrate in February to promote domestic processing of higher value products and curb illegal shipments of the metal that’s used in the production of electric vehicle batteries. Zimbabwe relaxed the export restrictions in April and the ban is now due to be implemented at the start of 2027, though producers have asked for more time to prepare.

“Zimbabwe’s lithium producers have had ample time to prepare for the January 2027 beneficiation deadline,” Secretary for Information Nick Mangwana said Friday on his X account. “There is no justification for further extensions.”

Like other African countries, Zimbabwe is seeking to derive more value from its natural resources.

Zimbabwe’s supply outlook is being closely watched as it has become a major supplier of lithium feedstock following a surge of investment by Chinese companies. The southern African nation accounted for about 10% of global mined production last year, according to the US Geological Survey.

Chinese investors in Zimbabwe’s lithium sector include local units of Sinomine Resource Group Co., Chengxin Lithium Group Co. and Sichuan Yahua Industrial Group Co. Sinomine and Yahua are building facilities capable of making lithium sulfate, an intermediate material used to make battery-grade chemicals, while Huayou already commissioned its own plant.