Zimbabwe's gold exports reached a record US$2.4 billion in 2024, underscoring the mining sector's vital contribution to national revenue. This achievement was largely driven by artisanal and small-scale gold miners (ASGM), who accounted for 65% (23.6 tons) of total gold production, significantly outpacing large-scale producers at 35%. The ASGM sector's dominance is attributed to lower operating costs and a less stringent regulatory environment, further amplified by favorable gold prices in 2024. This surge in production has spurred the rapid proliferation of small-scale milling operations and vat leaching sites across Zimbabwe, facilitating local processing and gold extraction. Consequently, the mining boom has generated employment opportunities, stimulating local economies and bolstering related businesses and supply chains.