Lindian seeks clarity on Malawi mining law changes as Kangankunde project faces media scrutiny
Australian critical minerals company Lindian Resources has requested a trading halt on the ASX while it seeks clarification from the Malawi Government over proposed changes to the country’s mining legislation and reports concerning its Kangankunde rare earths project
Lindian Resources has asked the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) to halt trading in its shares as it seeks clarity from the Malawi Government over proposed amendments to the Mines and Minerals Act 2023 and what the changes could mean for its Kangankunde Rare Earths Project.
The request comes amid recent media reports and commentary about proposed changes to Malawi’s mining laws, particularly requirements around the processing and export of minerals.
A report published by Mining & Trade News said a draft Mines and Minerals Bill could introduce thresholds requiring minerals to be processed before they are exported. The report suggested the proposed changes could affect Lindian’s plans for the Kangankunde project in Balaka.
The issue has also featured in recent comments from Malawi’s Minister of Mining, Thoko Tembo, who said during a visit to Kangankunde that mining companies would not be permitted to export raw minerals and would be expected to add value through processing in Malawi.
Lindian has now asked for the trading halt to remain in place until the earlier of the commencement of normal trading on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, or the release of a further announcement to the market.
“The Company requests that the trading halt remains in place until the earlier of the commencement of normal trading on Wednesday, 30 September 2026 or when an announcement is released to the market,” Lindian said in its request to the ASX.
The company said it was seeking clarification from the Malawi Government regarding the proposed amendments and the media commentary surrounding the Kangankunde project.
The development comes as Lindian moves closer to its planned first production at Kangankunde. The company has previously said the project remains on track for first production in the fourth quarter of 2026.
