Zimbabwe's decision to suspend the export of lithium and other raw minerals, has sent shockwaves through the mining sector, highlighting a broader global shift toward local beneficiation.

Governments across Africa are increasingly looking to retain more value from their natural resources by processing them locally, rather than exporting raw materials. But while the policy direction is clear, the practical implications-particularly around tax frameworks, transfer pricing, and multinational operations-are complex and often overlooked.

To unpack this, Mpho Sithole spoke to Michael Hewson, Director at Graphene Economics.