Ghana Sets Sights on Ending Raw Mineral Exports by 2030, Says GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi

Ghana is aiming to eliminate the export of raw minerals by the end of 2030, according to Sammy Gyamfi Esq., Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod). The ambitious target is part of a broader strategy to retain more value from the country’s mineral resources through local refining and processing.

Speaking at the African Minerals Policy Forum, Mining in Motion 2026, Gyamfi disclosed that GoldBod has signed refining services agreements with two locally owned refineries, Gold Coast Refinery and Royal Ghana Gold Refinery. Together, these facilities have refined 25 tonnes of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) gold purchased and exported by GoldBod in 2026, representing approximately 30 percent of the 85.4 tonnes exported as of October 20.

Gyamfi noted that local refining has gained significant momentum in recent months. Since August 1, 2026, the two refineries have processed 18.7 tonnes of ASM gold locally, accounting for 76 percent of the 25 tonnes refined over the period covered by the figures presented. In October alone, GoldBod locally refined 5.4 tonnes out of the 5.7 tonnes of ASM gold it purchased, representing 94.6 percent.

The GoldBod CEO stated that the initiative is transforming Ghana’s export profile, moving from 100 percent raw mineral exports at the end of 2024 toward zero raw mineral exports by the end of 2030. He also revealed that both refineries are working toward obtaining accreditation from the London Bullion Market Association within three to five years, with regulatory guidance from GoldBod.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen Ghana’s domestic processing capacity, create jobs, and ensure the country retains a greater share of the value generated from its mineral resources.

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