Ghana Mandates Newmont, AngloGold, Zijin to Localize Mining Operations by December 2026
Ghana's mining regulator has issued a directive requiring international mining companies Newmont, AngloGold Ashanti, and Zijin to transition their mining operations to local contractors by December 2026. This move is part of a broader effort by the Ghanaian government to increase local ownership and participation in the mining sector. The directive follows a revision of local ownership rules in January 2025, which mandates that surface mining be conducted by fully Ghanaian-owned firms, while underground mining must involve companies with at least 50% Ghanaian ownership. The companies have been given until the end of 2026 to comply, with the regulator warning of potential sanctions for non-compliance. Newmont's request for an extension to 2027 was rejected, as other listed miners have already complied with the new rules.