Ghana to phase out raw mineral exports by 2030 – Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to phase out exports of unprocessed mineral ores by 2030 as part of efforts to promote local processing, accelerate industrialisation and retain more economic value from Ghana’s natural resources.

The policy will cover minerals such as bauxite, manganese, iron and lithium, with the government seeking to encourage domestic processing and ensure that the country derives greater economic benefits from its mineral wealth.

Speaking at the Mining in Motion Conference on Monday, October 19, 2026, President Mahama said the proposed restrictions would be introduced gradually and supported by the necessary legal measures, mineral-specific requirements and transparent implementation timelines.

President Mahama said Ghana must move beyond extracting minerals and exporting them in their raw form to developing local processing capacity that can support industrial growth and create economic opportunities.

“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 proposed policy is intended to encourage investment in domestic processing facilities, strengthen local industries and create opportunities for employment and value addition along the mineral supply chain.

Rather than relying primarily on exports of unprocessed resources, the government wants Ghana to retain a greater share of the value generated through processing and related industrial activities.

The President also indicated that companies seeking access to Ghana’s mineral resources would be expected to comply with clearly defined processing obligations.

He said the government would pursue a phased prohibition on exports of unprocessed ores, with implementation guided by appropriate legislation, requirements tailored to individual minerals and clear 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.

“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 approach signals a shift towards linking access to Ghana’s mineral resources with greater domestic processing and industrial development.

The planned restrictions form part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen Ghana’s industrial base and increase the economic returns from its natural resources.

Developing local processing capacity could create opportunities for manufacturing, improve demand for related services and support the development of industries that use processed minerals as inputs.

However, achieving the 2030 target will depend on the development of suitable processing infrastructure, access to reliable and affordable energy, investment financing and the implementation of a clear regulatory framework.

The government’s proposed phased approach is expected to establish the requirements and timelines for individual minerals as Ghana seeks to move towards a model in which its natural resources contribute more directly to domestic production, industrial growth and job creation.