Accra: Gold exports from the small-scale mining sector in Ghana reached an impressive 51.5 tonnes, valued at approximately US$5 billion, in the first half of 2025, as revealed by Dr Ato Forson, the Minister for Finance. This significant achievement marks a major increase from the 26.4 tonnes valued at US$1.8 billion recorded during the same period in 2024.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Forson presented these findings during the 2025 Mid-Year Budget Review in Parliament, highlighting the reforms introduced by the recently established Ghana Gold Board (GOLDBOD) since April 2025. These reforms include changes to the licensing regime and the introduction of new aggregation systems aimed at effectively consolidating gold from the artisanal, small-scale mining sector across the country.
Dr Forson emphasized that these measures have already produced notable economic benefits in the short period since GOLDBOD began operations. He noted that gold exports from the small-scale sector have shown a 100 percent increase in quantity and a 180 percent rise in value compared to the previous year.
In a historic development, the Minister pointed out that, for the first time, gold exports from the small-scale sector have surpassed those from the large-scale sector. The increased foreign exchange inflows from GOLDBOD's operations have significantly bolstered Ghana's reserves, improved the balance of payments, and offered crucial support to the Ghana Cedi.
Dr Forson remarked on the broader implications of these developments, stating that they tell a story of a country previously denied the full benefits of its gold resources. He condemned the illegal gold trade and smuggling activities that have harmed the nation's well-being and announced the inauguration of a task force on July 8, 2025, to combat these issues.
The government is committed to taking strong action against those involved in illegal gold trade and smuggling, as these activities undermine the progress and prosperity of the Ghanaian people.
