ZMDC was established in 1982 through an act of Parliament, the ZMDC Act [Chapter 21:08]. ZMDC is wholly owned by the Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe and owns a number of subsidiaries. 

ZMDC has been and continues to be a major player and contributor to the growth of the Zimbabwean economy in general. Mining proceeds from ZMDC have contributed significantly to the national gross domestic output, foreign exchange earnings and government revenue.