Ghana Mandates Local Refining of Artisanal Gold

Ghana's GoldBod has announced a new requirement for local refining of artisanal gold from September 1, 2026. Self-Financing Aggregators and their approved offtakers will need to refine their gold doré in the country before exporting it. This move is aimed at domestic processing, with existing offtake agreements needing to be amended by August 31.

The directive applies to all parties named in GoldBod's order, including Self-Financing Aggregators and their approved offtakers. They will need to have their gold doré processed locally before exporting it, rather than shipping it unrefined. The measure is not just a preference for domestic processing but has tied compliance to continued participation under the applicable framework.

The export clearance process will also undergo changes. Applicants must now provide refinery confirmation, pay refining charges, complete assay and regulatory requirements, and have their gold refined at an approved or designated local refinery before GoldBod considers their export application.