President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to end the export of unprocessed mineral ores by 2030, in a move aimed at boosting local mineral processing, accelerating industrialisation and increasing the economic benefits Ghana derives from its natural resources.
Addressing the Mining in Motion Conference on Monday, October 19, 2026, the President said the government would introduce a phased ban on raw mineral exports, covering commodities such as bauxite, manganese, iron and lithium.
“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 stated.
President Mahama explained that the policy would be implemented through appropriate legislation, mineral-specific regulations and clearly defined timelines to ensure a structured transition towards domestic processing.
He emphasised that Ghana could no longer rely solely on extracting its mineral resources and exporting them in their raw state, arguing that greater investment in local processing would create opportunities for industrial expansion and economic growth.
As part of the initiative, investors seeking to exploit the country’s mineral resources would be expected to fulfil specific processing requirements, ensuring that more value is added locally before minerals enter international markets.
The President also cited existing restrictions on the export of iron scrap and non-ferrous metals as part of the government’s efforts to strengthen domestic resource utilisation.
The President noted that Ghana had already imposed a ban on the export of iron scrap and non-ferrous metals, adding that the new measures would be backed by legislation, mineral-specific requirements and clear implementation timelines.
“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, stressing that investors must meet the processing obligations attached to access to Ghana’s mineral resources.
The policy is expected to strengthen local mineral processing, attract investment into mineral-based industries and increase the economic value Ghana derives from its natural resources.
