Home to the second largest chrome ore reserves in the world, Zimbabwe is a key player in the global chromium market.To address current challenges, Zimbabwe has adopted a distinct strategy from its South African neighbour.

This strategy involves a chrome ore export ban, a push for local beneficiation, and support for the development of energy supply. To achieve these goals, the country is encouraging ferrochrome producers to build their own power plants while providing discounted tariffs in the meantime and over a twoyear period only. Additionally, Zimbabwe aims to commission additional energy infrastructures.

Zimbabwe has historically cultivated strong ties with China and is currently part of the Belt and Road Initiative. This close cooperation, based on mutual benefits, reflects in the local chrome sector, with most assets being Chinese-owned.

The panel discussions will address the following key questions:

. What are the prospects for Zimbabwe becoming a new leading ferrochrome production hub in Southern Africa?

. What is the outlook for open-pit chrome mining at the Zimbabwe Great Dyke?

. What is the potential for stainless steel production in Zimbabwe in the near future?

. Zimbabwe has set itself an ambitious target of 40% economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions reduction by 2030, compared to business as usual levels. Yet the question remains: how will the country manage its Just Transition goals whilst ensuring a stable and costeffective energy supply for the development of the local ferroalloys sector?

. With only about a year left under the energy agreement, will Zimbabwe’s ferrochrome producers be able to commission sufficient new power generation to cover their growing electricity needs? And if not, will the discounted tariffs remain in place to support the industry?

. How will the strategic partnership with China contribute to the economic development of Zimbabwe, including the growth of the local chrome value chain?

. What is the outlook for the local and regional logistical developments in relation to the Zimbabwe chrome and ferroalloys growth roadmap?

. What are the global and regional prospects for our industry and markets across the value chain, considering regulatory, economic and geopolitical developments?

What are the benefits of attending?

This event is an unmissable opportunity for those with an interest in chrome markets across the value chain, as well as in critical and strategic raw materials.

The event will comprise panel discussions featuring prominent experts, industry CEOs, political leaders, and leading analysts. It will also include regional outlooks. In addition to the invaluable knowledge gained from discussing with industry peers and the opportunity to address various experts, the event provides excellent networking opportunities. These include networking lunches, evening functions and all-day networking areas with refreshments and tea and coffee in perfect settings, ensuring a convivial atmosphere.

The ICDA is the only organisation that represents the chromium industry across the value chain worldwide, since 1984 it delivers the most insightful conferences on chromium and its markets.

Speaking opportunities

Our team is currently putting together a programme that will explore the most topical questions in the chromium industry. We will select the best experts and ensure a diversity of views and speaker profiles. If you would like to contribute to the success of this event, we would be delighted to receive your suggestions for thought-provoking and insightful presentations on a range of subjects, including but not limited to market and trade, logistics, macroeconomics, ESG, innovation, energy transition, end-use markets, international regulations and policies.