Mozambique bans raw mineral exports, tightens cashew rules to drive industry

The Government of Mozambique announced plans to prohibit the export of raw mineral commodities, aiming to shift the country from a primary‑commodity exporter to a processor of its own resources. The proposal was presented by Transport and Logistics Minister João Matlombe at the 17th China–Portuguese‑speaking Countries Business Forum. It targets critical minerals, energy and natural gas from the Rovuma basin as well as graphite, iron, vanadium, bauxite and certain agricultural products, with the goal of creating skilled jobs, fostering innovation and increasing the competitiveness of Mozambican products in regional and international markets.

At the same time, the cabinet approved a new decree updating the Cashew Law, replacing the 2018 legislation. The regulation sets specific rules for the entire cashew value chain – from production, drying, packaging and storage to processing, export and import – to improve the sector’s competitiveness and attract investment. Mozambique’s cashew exports generated US$57.3 million in 2023 and US$98.2 million in 2024, with the first quarter of 2026 already reaching US$68.4 million. The government says the new framework will strengthen the sector’s security, sustainability and contribution to the national economy.