GoldBod extends deadline for new licensing regime to June 21

Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has extended the deadline for transitioning to its newly introduced gold trading licensing regime by one month, shifting it from May 21 to June 21, 2025.

The extension, according to GoldBod, was prompted by “several petitions from stakeholders” requesting more time to align with the new regulatory framework.

Until the new deadline, individuals and entities holding gold trading licences issued by the defunct Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources will be allowed to continue operating.

However, GoldBod has described the grace period as a final one.

“It must be emphasised that even though a person may apply for a GoldBod licence beyond the new non-extendable deadline of 21st June 2025, only holders of a GoldBod licence will be allowed to purchase, sell or deal in gold after this date,” the statement read.

The Board warned that licences issued by the defunct agencies will no longer be valid beyond June 21 and that trading under such permits would constitute a punishable offence under the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140).

Additionally, effective Thursday, May 22, 2025, the export privileges attached to licences previously issued by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources will no longer be recognised.

“Accordingly, no person other than GoldBod as a corporate entity can export small-scale gold from Ghana, effective immediately,” the statement added.

GoldBod says the move is part of efforts to tighten oversight and centralise all gold export activities under a single institutional authority.

Stakeholders interested in dealing in gold are advised to apply for a GoldBod licence via the official website, www.goldbod.gov.gh. While the application window remains open after the June deadline, GoldBod made it clear that “unlicensed trading will not be tolerated.”

The Board called for cooperation and reaffirmed its commitment to “optimising national benefits from Ghana’s gold resources in line with the vision of President John Dramani Mahama.”