Chinese mining company Dingsheng Minerals, which operates a heavy sands concession in the district of Chibuto, Gaza province, could resume operations within days after months of suspension caused by administrative constraints and the destruction of five production lines.

The restart hinges on the resolution of logistical and operational issues, including the arrival of tugboats at the Port of Chongoene, expected by the end of October.

According to the Secretary of State for Gaza province, Jaime Neto, some of the obstacles that had been preventing the mining company from functioning are being overcome, creating conditions for a gradual resumption of activities. "Some of the obstacles that were preventing the company from operating are being overcome," the official said, highlighting the acquisition of tugboats and the completion of facilities for government services at the Port of Chongoene — infrastructure considered strategic for the outflow and export of minerals.

Beyond damage to production lines, the company faces difficulties related to water supply to its processing unit and the availability of equipment essential for export operations. Jaime Neto explained that transporting small quantities of minerals through the Port of Maputo is not economically viable, a situation that has constrained the company's ability to place its output on international markets.

The activation of logistical conditions at the Port of Chongoene could therefore represent a decisive step towards the recovery of operations and the normalisation of exports. The official added that the resumption of exports would allow the company to generate revenues to address local community grievances, particularly regarding the payment of compensation and greater participation in development projects.

Dingsheng Minerals is engaged in heavy sands mining, from which minerals such as ilmenite, zircon, and rutile are extracted — materials used across various industrial sectors, including pigment production and ceramics. The company has faced successive operational and administrative setbacks. In August, reports emerged that more than 100,000 tonnes of minerals had been held up due to difficulties obtaining export authorisations.

A potential resumption of activities could contribute to the recovery of mining output in Chibuto and to broader economic activity in Gaza province, although no definitive date for the restart of operations has yet been announced.