Guinea has announced a ban on exporting raw gold, aiming to build a domestic refining industry to retain more value from its mineral resources.The decision, effective within 90 days, requires gold to be refined to at least 99.5% purity before export.

This move seeks to shift Guinea's role in the global gold value chain, moving away from exporting raw ore and towards processing and adding value domestically.The strategy aligns with broader African efforts to industrialize mining, create jobs, and capture more economic value.Challenges include developing competitive refineries, ensuring reliable infrastructure, and integrating artisanal miners into the new system.

Success could set a precedent for other African nations, but implementation risks include delays, costs, and potential disruptions to the mining sector.

The government aims to balance regulatory reforms with maintaining commercial attractiveness for investors, emphasizing predictable frameworks and legal certainty.