Rwanda has suspended beryllium exports due to concerns about illegal mining and related disruptions. Beryllium, a lightweight yet strong metal used in aerospace, defense, electronics, and nuclear sectors, will not be shipped out until further notice.
Details about the incidents leading to this suspension have not been disclosed, but it has been stated that the halt will continue “until further notice.” During this time, a thorough review of illegal mining cases will be conducted, and efforts will be made to improve export procedures for the beryllium trade.
Exporters are also reminded to purchase minerals only from licensed mining operations, in compliance with mining regulations.
The Rwanda Mines, Petroleum, and Gas Board (RMB), a government agency responsible for regulating and overseeing these sectors, announced the suspension. In 2023, Rwanda’s mineral exports grew to over $1.1 billion, representing a 43% increase from $772 million in 2022.
The mining board credits the sector’s growth to improvements in value addition, professionalization, investment in mechanization, and the effective implementation of sustainable mining practices.
However, the industry still faces challenges. Illegal mining remains a significant issue, particularly due to landowners allowing unlicensed miners to operate on their land.
