Staff reporter
The intensification of trade relations between the United Kingdom (UK) and Zimbabwe, particularly in the critical minerals sector, signifies a robust engagement and re-engagement strategy by the Second Republic.
Speaking during the Chamber of Mines Annual General Meeting and Conference's critical minerals symposium in Victoria Falls yesterday, Head of Strategy and Engagement at the British embassy in Harare, Harry Cox highlighted that the trade relationship between the UK and Zimbabwe has seen significant growth, bolstered by a trade agreement that provides Zimbabwean exporters with preferential access to the UK market.
"Last year, I'm pleased to say, trade between our countries grew by 67%. So, we are moving in the right direction, but we see potential for much more, including in the area of critical minerals," remarked Cox.
Cox emphasized the immense potential for growth and collaboration between the two nations, particularly in the high-value arena of critical minerals.
“Critical minerals are indispensable elements used in high-tech applications, renewable energy technologies, and various industrial processes. These include lithium, cobalt, rare earth elements, and platinum group metals (PGMs), which are essential for manufacturing batteries, electric vehicles (EVs), wind turbines, and solar panels.
Furthermore, Cox highlighted the British Embassy's strategic approach to enhancing trade ties with Zimbabwe.
"I lead our strategy and engagement team at the British Embassy in Harare. Our work covers a broad range of topics, but we are particularly focused on increasing trade between the UK and Zimbabwe," Cox stated.
Cox also pointed to significant advancements in renewable energy projects in Zimbabwe.
"I'm pleased to say Solar Century Africa, a UK company, recently signed an agreement with Dellaglio's Eureka Gold Mine to build a seven-megawatt solar plant.
“UK is already collaborating with major global mining firms such as BHP, Anglo-American, Barrick Gold, and Sandfire Resources. These partnerships aim to harness advanced technologies and best practices to explore and develop Zimbabwe's mineral resources," he noted.
The British Embassy in Harare is ramping up its efforts to strengthen trade relations with Zimbabwe, with a particular focus on the critical minerals sector. This collaborative effort not only promises economic growth but also strengthens the ties between the two nations.
