President John Dramani Mahama has announced a transformative policy that will see Ghana gradually ban the export of unprocessed mineral ores by 2030, marking a decisive push toward local value addition and industrialisation.

Speaking at the Mining in Motion Conference on Monday, October 19, 2026, President Mahama outlined the government’s intention to introduce a phased prohibition on raw mineral exports, targeting key resources including bauxite, manganese, iron, and lithium. This bold move, he explained, is part of a broader effort to ensure that Ghana’s mineral wealth directly supports domestic economic 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,” President Mahama declared, drawing applause from stakeholders and industry leaders present.

To realise this vision, the government plans to roll out a comprehensive framework of legal measures, mineral-specific requirements, and transparent implementation timelines. President Mahama also made it clear that investors interested in Ghana’s mineral sector would be required to adhere to strict processing obligations, ensuring that the benefits of the country’s resources remain within its borders.

“We will pursue a phased prohibition on exports of unprocessed ores, supported by the necessary legal measures, mineral-specific requirements, and transparent implementation timetables. 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 said.

President Mahama stressed that this policy shift is designed to build Ghana’s local processing capacity, fuel industrial growth, and secure a larger share of the economic benefits for the nation. With the 2030 deadline approaching, Ghana is poised to enter a new era in mineral resource management—one where value is created and retained at home.

Source: Apexnewsgh.com