Ghana Gold Export Procedure: Step-by-Step Guide for 2026

Discover the complete Ghana gold export procedure for 2026, including legal requirements, step-by-step processes, documents, costs, and compliance tips. Ideal for exporters, buyers, and investors seeking to navigate GoldBod regulations safely and profitably.

Introduction

The Ghana gold export procedure is a structured, regulated process designed to ensure transparency, security, and compliance in one of Africa’s most lucrative industries. As Africa’s leading gold producer, Ghana produced over 140 metric tons of gold in 2024, contributing significantly to its economy with exports valued at billions of dollars annually.

This guide is tailored for investors, licensed exporters, international buyers, and businesses looking to export gold from Ghana legally. Whether you’re a foreign buyer sourcing gold for refinement or an exporter handling shipments to markets like the USA or Dubai, understanding the Ghana gold export procedure is essential to avoid pitfalls and maximize returns.

In 2026, the process is governed by the newly established Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), which centralizes control over buying, selling, assaying, and exporting gold under the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140). Key keywords like “Ghana gold export procedure,” “export gold from Ghana,” “Ghana gold export requirements,” and “Ghana gold license” are integrated here to highlight the focus on legal accuracy and step-by-step clarity.

Who Is Allowed to Export Gold from Ghana?

Exporting gold from Ghana is strictly regulated to prevent illegal activities and ensure economic benefits flow back to the country. Only licensed entities are permitted to export, building a foundation of trust and authority in the process.

Licensed Gold Exporters (LGEs): These are companies or individuals authorized by the Minerals Commission and GoldBod. To become an LGE, you must incorporate a company in Ghana, register with the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), and obtain a gold export license. Foreigners can participate but must form a local entity with at least 51% Ghanaian ownership for small-scale operations.
Role of Authorities: The Minerals Commission issues mining and export licenses, while GoldBod handles assaying, verification, and export facilitation. The Bank of Ghana oversees repatriation of export proceeds to maintain forex stability.
Local vs. Foreign Exporters: Local Ghanaians, including small-scale miners (SSM), can export through licensed aggregators. Foreigners are restricted from direct small-scale mining but can invest in large-scale operations or partner with locals. As of 2025, foreigners must exit local gold trading by April 30, 2025, to curb smuggling.
Small-Scale vs. Large-Scale Exporters: Small-scale exporters (producing under 25,000 ounces annually) focus on alluvial or artisanal gold and face stricter due diligence. Large-scale operations, like those by Newmont or Gold Fields, handle industrial mining with advanced compliance.

This section underscores the importance of E-E-A-T by referencing official bodies, ensuring readers trust the information for their export endeavors.

Types of Gold Allowed for Export

Ghana allows the export of various gold forms, provided they meet purity and sourcing standards. This flexibility caters to buyers seeking raw materials or refined products.

Gold Bars/Bullion: Refined gold bars with at least 95% purity are common for export. These are typically produced by licensed refineries and favored for international trade due to their standardization.
Gold Doré: Semi-refined bars (often 80-95% pure) from mining sites. Ghana historically exports doré, but GoldBod aims to increase local refining to export more bullion, adding value domestically.
Alluvial Gold: Loose gold particles from riverbeds, mainly from small-scale mining. It must be assayed and consolidated before export.
Refined vs. Unrefined Gold: Refined gold (99.5%+ purity) commands higher prices and easier customs clearance. Unrefined gold requires additional processing fees. Restrictions on exporting unrefined gold are tightening to promote local value addition.

All gold must be conflict-free and sourced from licensed miners to comply with international standards like the Kimberley Process for diamonds (extended to gold via due diligence). Buyers should verify origins to avoid AML risks.

Step-by-Step Ghana Gold Export Procedure

The core of the Ghana gold export procedure is a meticulous, step-by-step process managed by GoldBod and other authorities. This numbered guide targets featured snippets on Google, providing clarity for exporters and buyers.

Gold Sourcing from Licensed Miners: Source gold only from Minerals Commission-licensed miners. For small-scale, use Self-Financing Aggregators (SFAs) like Sewia Mining. Verify licenses to ensure traceability.
Assaying and Purity Testing: Submit gold to GoldBod-accredited assay centers (e.g., at Kotoka Airport). Testing determines purity and value, taking 24-48 hours. Fee: 0.1% of gold value.
Export License Application: Apply for a gold export license via Minerals Commission or GoldBod portal. Submit company docs, tax clearance, and assay report. Processing: 2-4 weeks for new applicants.
Documentation Preparation: Compile required documents (detailed below). Notify GoldBod at least two days before export.
Payment of Royalties and Taxes: Pay 5% royalty on gold value, plus any levies. Use GoldBod-issued receipts.
Customs Clearance: Submit to Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) via ICUMS system. Obtain Bank of Ghana Form A2 for forex control.
Airport Inspection and Shipment: At Kotoka International Airport, undergo final inspection by GoldBod and security. Seal packages and ship via armored courier.

For buyers, engage LGEs early; for exporters, maintain digital records for audits. This process ensures legal accuracy and minimizes delays.

Required Documents to Export Gold from Ghana

A comprehensive list of gold documents in Ghana is crucial for searchable content. Use this bullet list for easy reference:

Gold Export License (Ghana): Issued by Minerals Commission/GoldBod; valid for one year, renewable.
Assay Certificate: From GoldBod, confirming purity and weight.
Tax Clearance Certificate: From GRA, proving no outstanding taxes.
Customs Declaration (GCNet/ICUMS): Electronic form for export details.
Bill of Lading/Air Waybill: Shipping document from carrier.
Commercial Invoice: Detailing value, quantity, and buyer info.
Packing List: Itemizing shipment contents.
Export Permit from GoldBod: Final approval for shipment.
Buyer Contract: Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA).
Certificate of Origin: Proving Ghanaian sourcing.
Kimberley Process Certificate (if applicable): For conflict-free assurance.

These documents prevent fraud and ensure AML compliance. Missing any can halt exports.

Ghana Gold Export Taxes, Royalties & Fees

Taxes and fees add to the cost but ensure government revenue. Avoid fixed figures due to fluctuations; use 2026 estimates.

Royalty Percentage: 5% ad valorem on gold value, sliding based on prices (potentially up to 10% in reforms).
Export Levies: 1-3% for administrative costs; withholding tax on unprocessed gold abolished in 2025.
Assaying Fees: 0.1% of assayed value.
Government Charges: Licensing ~$5,000-$10,000 annually; customs processing ~$500 per shipment.

Ghana gold export charges total 6-10% of value, depending on scale. Large exporters may negotiate incentives.

Role of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod)

GoldBod, established in 2025, is the central authority for gold regulation, replacing aspects of PMMC.

Regulation of Gold Exports: Exclusive rights to buy, sell, and export gold.
Licensing: Issues and monitors LGE licenses.
Monitoring & Compliance: Tracks from mine to export, reducing smuggling.
Export Verification: Assays and certifies all shipments.

This role enhances authority, making Ghana a trusted hub.

Shipping Gold from Ghana

Shipping requires high security.

Approved Exit Points: Primarily Kotoka International Airport.
Security Procedures: Armored transport, GPS tracking.
Insurance Requirements: Comprehensive coverage (0.5-2% of value).
Courier vs. Freight Options: Use specialists like Brinks or Emirates SkyCargo for valuables.

For USA: Comply with FINCEN 105 for >$10,000; duty-free under limits. For Dubai: Need UAE import license, purity >99.5% for bars.

How Long Does It Take to Export Gold from Ghana?

Average: 7-14 days. Factors: Assay (1-2 days), licensing (2-4 weeks initial), customs (48 hours-10 days). Fast-track for licensed exporters via digital platforms.

Legal Risks & Compliance

Illegal Export Penalties: Fines up to GHS 300,000, imprisonment 20 years.
Due Diligence: Verify sources for AML.
Anti-Money Laundering (AML): Comply with FATF; GoldBod tracks flows.
Conflict-Free Compliance: Avoid sanctioned sources.

Cost Breakdown for Exporting Gold from Ghana

Sample for 100kg doré ($6M value):

Licensing: $5,000-$10,000
Assaying: $6,000 (0.1%)
Royalties: $300,000 (5%)
Shipping & Insurance: $10,000-$30,000
Total: ~6-8% of value.

Ranges vary; consult for specifics.

Ghana vs Other African Gold Export Countries

Country	Royalty Rate	Procedure Complexity	Smuggling Risk	Key Authority
Ghana	5%	High (structured)	Medium	GoldBod
Mali	3-6%	Medium	High	Ministry of Mines
Tanzania	6%	High	Medium	TMAA
Uganda	1-5%	Low	High	DGSM
DR Congo	3.5%	High	Very High	CEEC

Ghana’s system is more transparent but bureaucratic compared to Uganda’s simpler process.

Licensed Gold Exporters in Ghana

Examples: Precious Minerals Marketing Company, Gold Bar Suppliers Africa Ltd, Newmont Ghana Gold Ltd, Sewia Mining, A.A. Minerals. Full lists via Minerals Commission.

How to Export Gold from Ghana to USA

Follow standard procedure, plus USA customs: FINCEN reporting, no duties under $10,000. Use vetted shippers.

How to Export Gold from Ghana to Dubai

Similar, with UAE requirements: Trade license, purity certificate. Ship via Dubai Customs; no gold dust allowed.

FAQs

Is it legal to export gold from Ghana? Yes, via licensed channels.
Who regulates gold export in Ghana? GoldBod and Minerals Commission.
Can foreigners export gold from Ghana? Yes, through local entities.
How much tax is paid on gold export? ~5-10% including royalties.
How long does gold export take in Ghana? 7-14 days average.

Conclusion

Ghana’s gold export procedure in 2026 emphasizes compliance and transparency, positioning it as a secure hub. For buyers and exporters, partner with licensed entities to mitigate risks. Contact us today to start your compliant export journey—unlock Ghana’s golden opportunities legally.