Ghana’s mining regulator has instructed major international operators, including Newmont, AngloGold Ashanti, and Zijin Mining, to transfer their mining operations to locally owned contractors by December 2026 or face penalties, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The directive, issued by the Ghana Minerals Commission, is part of broader efforts to strengthen local participation in the country’s mining sector. Companies that fail to comply risk fines and potential suspension of operations.
Under revised rules introduced in 2025, surface mining must be carried out by fully Ghanaian-owned firms, while underground operations require at least 50% local ownership. Most large mining companies in the country have already transitioned to this contract mining model.
The affected firms had requested more time to comply, citing operational and regulatory complexities, but those requests were declined by authorities.
The policy shift reflects a wider trend among African resource-rich nations seeking to retain more economic value from natural resources and build domestic industry capacity. Officials say the move is intended to support the growth of local mining service providers and increase national economic benefits from gold production.
Industry stakeholders have raised concerns about efficiency and commercial flexibility, though regulators maintain that local firms have the capability to handle expanded roles with appropriate oversight.
The transition deadline remains in place, with enforcement measures expected for non-compliant operators.