Navigating Zambia’s Mineral Ex...

Company Update: Simplifying Your Mineral Export Journey from Zambia – The Export Permit Process Explained

Lusaka, Zambia – May 16, 2025 – For many involved in Zambia's thriving minerals sector, navigating the export process can seem like a complex undertaking. A crucial step in legally and efficiently exporting minerals is obtaining a Mineral Export Permit from the Zambian authorities. At Chiwempala Heritage Minerals Limited, we believe in empowering our clients with knowledge and providing expert facilitation to make this process as smooth as possible.

This update aims to shed light on the general process of acquiring a mineral export permit in Zambia and how our dedicated services can assist you every step of the way.

Why is a Mineral Export Permit Essential?

A Mineral Export Permit, issued by the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development (MMMD), is a legal requirement for any individual or company intending to export minerals, ores, or mineral products from Zambia. This permit ensures that:

• All exports are documented and accounted for.
• Applicable royalties and taxes are paid to the government.
• Minerals are sourced and traded legitimately.
• The process adheres to national laws and regulations, including the Minerals Regulation Commission Act of 2024.

The General Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a Mineral Export Permit in Zambia:

While specific nuances can vary, the general pathway involves several key stages and interactions with different government bodies:

1. Eligibility & Pre-requisites:

   • Valid Licence/Permit: The applicant must typically hold a valid Mining Licence (large-scale, small-scale, or artisanal), a Mineral Processing Licence, or a Mineral Trading Permit. Chiwempala Heritage Minerals Limited, for instance, holds a TPIN (2003755180) and is duly registered for relevant activities, including Non-Specialized Wholesale Trade.
   • Company Registration: Your company must be legally registered and in good standing.

2. Application Submission:

   • Application Forms: Duly completed application forms for the export permit are required.
   • Mineral Output Statistical Evaluation System (MOSES): For the export of base metals (like copper) and precious minerals (like gold), applications are typically submitted electronically through the MOSES platform.
   • Manual Submissions: For some industrial minerals and gemstones, applications might still be processed manually through the Geological Survey Department and the relevant department within the MMMD (or the new Minerals Regulation Commission structure).

3. Mineral Analysis and Valuation (Geological Survey Department - GSD):

   • Sampling Request: The applicant is usually required to request the GSD to physically inspect and take samples of the mineral consignment intended for export.
   • Analysis & Valuation: The GSD conducts an analysis of the samples to determine the mineral content and quality. Based on this, they issue a Mineral Analysis Certificate and/or a Mineral Valuation Report. This is crucial for determining the value of the consignment and applicable royalties.
   • Fees: A fee (e.g., around K700 as per past MMMD guidelines, subject to change) is typically payable for the Mineral Analysis and Valuation Certificate.

4. Mineral Royalty Clearance (Zambia Revenue Authority - ZRA):

   • Documentation Review: The GSD forwards the Mineral Analysis Certificate and Valuation Report to the ZRA.
   • Tax Compliance Check: ZRA reviews these documents and verifies the applicant's tax compliance status, particularly concerning mineral royalty payments. Mineral royalties (e.g., 6% of the norm value for precious metals like gold) must be duly paid.
   • Royalty Clearance: Once satisfied, ZRA issues a verification report or clearance confirming that mineral royalty obligations have been met for the consignment.

5. Security Clearance (Zambia Police Service):

   • A security clearance for the mineral consignment is generally required from the Zambia Police Service to ensure the legitimacy and security of the intended export.

6. Final Application to MMMD/Minerals Regulation Commission:

   • The complete application package, including the GSD reports, ZRA royalty clearance, police security clearance, completed application forms, and proof of your mining/trading rights, is submitted to the Director of Mines (or the equivalent office under the Minerals Regulation Commission).
   • Permit Fee: A fee for the Mineral Export Permit itself (e.g., around K300 as per past MMMD guidelines, subject to change) is payable upon approval.

7. Issuance of Export Permit:

   • If all requirements are met and documents are in order, the MMMD/Minerals Regulation Commission will issue the Mineral Export Permit. This permit is typically valid for a specific period (e.g., 3 months) and is non-renewable, meaning a new application is needed for subsequent exports.

Key Documents Generally Required:

• Duly completed export permit application form.
• Mineral Analysis Certificate / Mineral Valuation Report from the Geological Survey Department.
• Verification report/clearance on mineral royalty payment from the ZRA.
• Security clearance by the Zambia Police Service.
• Copies of certified production returns (if applicable).
• Copy of your valid Mining Right, Mineral Processing Licence, or Mineral Trading Permit.
• Company registration documents.
• Valid Tax Clearance Certificate.
• Sales contract/invoice (may be required).

How Chiwempala Heritage Minerals Facilitates This Process for You:

Navigating these steps can be time-consuming and requires meticulous attention to detail. This is where Chiwempala Heritage Minerals Limited steps in with our Export Documentation & Compliance Facilitation service.

• Expert Guidance: We provide you with a clear understanding of all current requirements, documentation needs, and procedural steps, tailored to the specific mineral you intend to export.
• Document Preparation & Review: We assist in accurately completing application forms and compiling all necessary supporting documents, minimizing errors that could lead to delays.
• Liaison with Authorities: Leveraging our experience, we can act as a liaison (where permissible) with the Geological Survey Department for sampling and analysis, with ZRA for royalty matters, and with the MMMD/Minerals Regulation Commission for the overall application process.
• MOSES System Support: For exports requiring submission via the MOSES platform, we can guide you through the online application process.
• Time Savings & Efficiency: Our facilitation aims to streamline the process, saving you valuable time and resources, allowing you to focus on your core business activities.
• Proactive Problem Solving: Should any queries or minor issues arise during the application process, we work diligently to address them promptly.

Key Considerations for a Smooth Export Process:

• Accuracy is Crucial: Ensure all information provided in your application and supporting documents is accurate and consistent.
• Start Early: The permit process involves multiple agencies, so begin your application well in advance of your planned export date.
• Understand Mineral-Specific Requirements: While the general process is similar, there might be slight variations or additional focus areas depending on whether you are exporting gold, copper, gemstones, or other industrial minerals.
• Maintain Good Standing: Ensure your company’s tax affairs and licensing are always up-to-date.

Partner with Chiwempala for Seamless Exports:

At Chiwempala Heritage Minerals Limited, we are committed to fostering transparent, compliant, and efficient mineral trade in Zambia. Our understanding of the local regulatory landscape and our dedication to client service make us an ideal partner to facilitate your mineral export permit applications.

If you are planning to export minerals from Zambia and require assistance with the export permit process or any other related service, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Contact Us Today:

Email: info@chiwempala.com
Phone: +260 967 523 298 / +260 977 904 444

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Disclaimer: This blog post provides general information on the mineral export permit process in Zambia as understood by Chiwempala Heritage Minerals Limited in May 2025. Procedures, fees, and requirements are subject to change by the Zambian government authorities. Exporters should always verify the latest regulations with the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development/Minerals Regulation Commission and other relevant bodies or consult with us for the most current facilitation services. Chiwempala Heritage Minerals Limited facilitates the application process and does not issue permits.