Mozambique has taken a major step up the global battery supply chain with the launch of a Chinese-owned graphite processing plant, marking a shift from raw mineral exports to value-added industrial production. President Daniel Chapo officially inaugurated the facility in Niassa province, describing it as a milestone that places Mozambique more firmly on the global industrial map.
The plant, with an annual processing capacity of 200,000 tonnes, is designed to transform locally mined graphite into higher-value products used in lithium-ion batteries, electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems. Mozambique is already one of the world’s leading producers of natural graphite, but until now much of its output has been exported in raw form.
At the inauguration, President Chapo said the project aligns with the government’s strategy to industrialise the economy, create jobs and maximise returns from the country’s vast natural resources. He noted that local processing would help diversify exports, boost foreign exchange earnings and strengthen Mozambique’s integration into global clean-energy value chains.
The Chinese-owned facility is expected to create hundreds of direct and indirect jobs in Niassa province, while also supporting skills transfer and infrastructure development in the region. Authorities said the project demonstrates growing investor confidence in Mozambique’s mining and industrial sectors, despite broader economic and security challenges.
Graphite is a critical mineral for the global energy transition, particularly for battery anodes used in electric vehicles. Demand is projected to rise sharply over the coming decade as countries accelerate decarbonisation efforts. By hosting processing capacity locally, Mozambique aims to capture a larger share of this expanding market.
Government officials stressed that the project would operate under national environmental and mining regulations, with commitments to sustainable production practices. The plant is also expected to encourage further downstream investments in battery materials and related industries.
The launch signals Mozambique’s intention to move beyond commodity exports and position itself as a strategic player in the global battery materials supply chain, leveraging its mineral endowment to support long-term industrial growth.
