Ghana plans to phase out exports of unprocessed mineral ores by 2030 as part of standard measures to enhance downstream processing and retain greater economic value within its domestic economy.
Speaking at the 2026 Mining in Motion conference, President John Mahama outlined the strategic initiative to strengthen local processing infrastructure and foster broader industrial development.
“I’ve set a clear goal that by 2030, raw mineral ores should no longer leave our shores. Our bauxite, manganese, iron, lithium, and other minerals must support processing and industrial development here at home,” Mahama said.
The shift aims to expand mineral refining, capture higher-margin economic benefits within national borders, and support sustainable economic development across the country.
Mahama added that investors interested in accessing Ghana’s mineral resources would need to meet clearly-defined processing obligations.
“We will pursue a phased prohibition on exports of unprocessed ores, supported by the necessary legal measures, mineral-specific requirements, and transparent implementation timetables,” he said.
“We have already imposed a ban on the export of iron scrap and non-ferrous metals. Investors must understand the processing obligations associated with access to our resources.”
In addition to industrial expansion, the government is focusing on law enforcement across regional mining operations to suppress illegal mining. Recent targeted field operations resulted in the seizure of 8,200 items, including 135 excavators and over 200 firearms, alongside ongoing land rehabilitation across impacted extraction zones.
Write to Paula Fabe at Mining.com.au
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