Adoa News Adoa News
President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to end the export of unprocessed mineral ores by 2030, as the government seeks to boost local processing, promote industrialisation and ensure Ghana derives greater economic benefits from its mineral resources.
The policy will involve a phased ban on the export of raw minerals, including bauxite, manganese, iron and lithium. According to the President, the initiative will be backed by the necessary legal framework, mineral-specific regulations and clearly defined implementation timelines.
Speaking at the Mining in Motion Conference on Monday, October 19, 2026, President Mahama said Ghana must shift away from exporting minerals in their raw state and focus on processing them locally to support industrial growth.
“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,” he said.
The President further explained that companies seeking to exploit Ghana’s mineral resources would be expected to comply with specific processing requirements as part of efforts to increase value addition within the country.
He reiterated that the government would implement the export restrictions gradually, with appropriate legislation, mineral-specific obligations and transparent timelines guiding the process.
“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 stated.
President Mahama also pointed to existing restrictions on the export of iron scrap and non-ferrous metals, emphasising that investors must understand and fulfil the processing obligations attached to accessing Ghana’s natural resources.
“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,” he added.
The proposed policy is expected to encourage investment in domestic mineral-processing facilities, create opportunities for industrial expansion and increase the economic value retained within Ghana. It also forms part of the government’s broader efforts to use the country’s mineral wealth to drive sustainable industrial development rather than relying primarily on the export of unprocessed resources.