Raw Gold in Africa |Ultimate 2025 Guide to Buying, trading & Exporting Safely

Raw gold in Africa refers to naturally mined, unrefined gold that is typically extracted through both artisanal and large-scale mining operations across the continent. Found in its natural state as gold dust, nuggets, or doré bars, this form of gold is highly sought after by traders, refiners, and investors looking for direct sourcing opportunities from mineral-rich regions such as Ghana, Uganda, Mali, and Sudan.

Africa is renowned for its many gold reserves, making it a global hub for raw gold trade. However, navigating the market safely and profitably requires a trusted and reliable partner.

That’s where GoldPricesInAfrica.com comes in. As a leading and verified source for high-quality raw gold in Africa, we connect buyers with authentic, ethically sourced gold at very competitive prices. Whether you’re a first-time investor or a seasoned trader, our platform ensures transparency, secure transactions, and access to licensed gold suppliers across the continent. Raw Gold in Africa

What Is Raw Gold?

Raw gold is unrefined gold extracted directly from mines, usually appearing in Gold dust, Gold nuggets and Gold ore embedded in rock which it has not yet been melted or purified into bullion or coins, making it essential for refineries, jewelers, and international buyers seeking low-cost entry into the gold supply chain. Raw Gold in Africa

Top Raw Gold Producing Countries in Africa (2025)

1. Ghana – Africa’s Top Gold Producer

They have an annual Production of over 130 metric tons, and Ghana has consistently led Africa in gold output, driven by both large-scale industrial mines (e.g., AngloGold Ashanti, Newmont) and artisanal mining. The country has a well-regulated gold sector with dedicated mineral buying centers and an efficient export system.

2. South Africa – Historic Gold Giant

They have an annual Production of around 100 metric tons, although output has declined over the years. South Africa remains a major producer with deep-level underground mining and has some of the world’s richest gold reserves, including the Witwatersrand Basin. Raw Gold in Africa

3. Sudan – Rising Gold Exporter

Sudan has an annual Production of over 90 metric tons, and gold is Sudan’s biggest foreign exchange earner, mostly from artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM). The country is investing in formalizing the sector to combat smuggling and increase government revenues.

4. Mali – Major Gold Exporter in West Africa

They have an annual Production of around 70–80 metric tons, and Gold contributes significantly to Mali’s GDP and export earnings. Despite political instability, the country has active foreign mining companies and robust ASM activity.

5. Uganda – Emerging Gold Hub in East Africa

• Annual Production: it is estimated between 20–25 metric tons (mostly from ASM). Uganda’s gold production has increased due to discoveries in Karamoja, Mubende, and Buhweju.
• The country is positioning itself as a regional gold refining and export hub, with refineries like African Gold Refinery (AGR) in Entebbe.

Note: Much of the raw gold in artisanal regions is undocumented, leading to informal trade and smuggling risks.

 How Raw Gold Is Mined in Africa

1. Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM)

Common in countries like Sudan, Mali, and DRC, there is often manual and low-tech, which accounts for 20–30% of Africa’s gold production, which is prone to smuggling due to a lack of regulation

2. Industrial Mining

These are operated by licensed international or national mining companies that use modern machinery and strict export procedures, like AngloGold Ashanti (Ghana), Barrick Gold (Tanzania). Raw Gold in Africa

How Raw Gold Is Traded in Africa

1. Sourcing from Artisanal and Small-Scale Miners (ASM)

Most raw gold comes from artisanal miners using rudimentary methods, and these miners usually sell gold to local middlemen or dealers who offer cash on the spot, often below market value due to a lack of formal pricing mechanisms.

2. Local Dealers and Aggregators

Local gold dealers act as intermediaries, buying gold in small quantities from miners. They may smelt and test the gold for purity using basic tools, then aggregate it into larger lots for resale, and these dealers typically operate in informal markets or town centers near mining areas.

3. Weighing and Testing

Transactions are based on weight and purity, usually measured in grams, and gold is often tested using acid tests or handheld XRF scanners, though results can be imprecise if not handled by professionals.

4. Price Negotiation

Prices are negotiated in cash, often referencing the global gold price, but with discounts due to transport, risk, and local market conditions, and the lack of standard pricing creates room for price manipulation, especially in rural areas.

5. Resale or Export Preparation

Once enough gold is collected, local traders may sell to larger licensed exporters within the country who prepare the gold for export after obtaining proper documentation and clearances if they’re licensed.

Notes: In many countries like Ghana, Uganda, and Tanzania, governments are working to formalize the trade through mineral buying centers, certification systems, and traceability tools to reduce smuggling and improve transparency.

 How Raw gold is exported internationally from African countries:

1. Licensing and Compliance

Before exporting, the exporter must obtain an export license from the relevant government authority (e.g., the Ministry of Mines, Uganda Revenue Authority, or Ghana Minerals Commission), always ensure the gold is legally sourced, often requiring documentation proving the origin and ownership. Raw Gold in Africa

2. Gold Assaying and Certification

The gold is taken to a certified assay laboratory for purity testing (often in karats or percentages), and a certificate of assay is issued, detailing the weight, purity (like 22K, 24K), and condition of the gold and the governments may require valuation reports for tax and customs purposes.

3. Documentation and Customs Clearance

Key export documents include:

• Export permit
• Assay certificate
• Invoice and packing list
• Customs declaration form
• Tax clearance certificate (if applicable)
• Certificate of origin and possibly an End User Certificate (depending on the country)

4. Secure Transport and Logistics

The gold is sealed, packed securely, and handed over to a licensed logistics company (like Brinks, G4S, Transguard) to ensure it is insured and tracked during transport, and Airports often have special procedures and customs desks for precious minerals exports.

5. International Shipment and Delivery

The gold is air-freighted to the destination country upon arrival, and it goes through import customs clearance with support from a licensed importer or customs broker, and the final buyer (refinery, trader, or jeweler) receives the gold after verifying its documentation and quality. Raw Gold in Africa

Notes: Export taxes and royalties may apply (like Ghana imposes a 3% royalty on the value of gold), and some countries require exporters to sell a portion of gold through the central bank or approved national buying centers before exporting.

NOTE. In Ghana, exporters must pass through the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) for testing and approval.

Challenges facing the Raw Gold Trade in Africa

1. Wide Spreads Illegal Mining and Smuggling

Many gold mining operations are informal or illegal, especially in rural areas, which leads to gold smuggling across borders, not paying the government’s tax revenue, and damaging legitimate trade.

2. Lack of Transparency and Verification

There is inadequate documentation, and fake certificates are common, which makes it hard for buyers to verify the source and purity of gold, and this increases the risk of fraud and money laundering activities linked to gold trade.

3. Inconsistent Regulations across Countries

Regulatory frameworks vary widely between countries (e.g., Ghana vs. DRC), and traders face bureaucratic hurdles, delays, or conflicting laws when transporting or exporting gold across borders.

4. Security Risks

There are high-value transactions that attract theft, armed robbery, and corruption, and buyers and sellers often lack access to secure transportation, storage, or trustworthy financial services.

5. Environmental and Human Rights Concerns

Raw gold is sometimes sourced from areas with child labor, unsafe mining practices, or environmental damage, and International buyers may face pressure to ensure ethical sourcing and compliance with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards.

How to Buy Raw Gold Safely in Africa

1. Verify the Seller’s Legitimacy

• Conduct due diligence: Research the seller’s background, ask for business registration documents, and verify their mining or export license.
• Check references: Contact previous buyers or partners and review testimonials if available. Raw Gold in Africa

2. Inspect Gold Purity and Authenticity

• Use a certified gold assayer or testing lab. Always ensure the gold is properly tested for purity (e.g. 22K or 24K for raw gold).
• Request assay reports: This formal document states the gold’s purity and weight.

3. Understand Local Laws and Export Regulations

• Familiarize yourself with mining laws: Each African country has its legal framework.
• Obtain necessary permits: This may include export licenses, customs clearances, or Central Bank approvals (e.g., in Ghana or Uganda)

4. Use a Trusted Third-Party Escrow or Lawyer

• Avoid direct cash transactions: Work through a bank escrow or legal intermediary to hold funds until gold is verified.
• Draft a contract: Include terms on delivery, payment, and dispute resolution.

5. Secure Logistics and Export Process

• Work with a licensed logistics firm: They should handle secure transport, documentation, and customs clearance.
• Track the shipment: Use insured, traceable shipping options like Brinks or Transguard.

Recommended Partners:

• Goldpricesinafrica.com. A trusted gold sourcing and export company helping buyers source ethical raw gold across Africa. Raw Gold in Africa

 Export Regulations in Top African Gold Countries

1. Ghana

Authority: Minerals Commission of Ghana.

Requirements:

• Exporters must be licensed by the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) or the Minerals Commission.
• Gold must be assayed and certified by PMMC before export.
• 3% royalty is paid to the government based on the gold’s value.

Customs Clearance:

All documentation is verified by the Ghana Revenue Authority at Kotoka International Airport before gold is shipped.

2. Uganda

• Authority: Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines (DGSM), Uganda Revenue Authority (URA).

Requirements:

• Exporters must obtain a Mineral Export Permit from DGSM.
• Gold must be smelted, assayed, and taxed (typically a 5% levy on unrefined gold).
• Exporters are required to declare gold at the Customs Department and obtain a Certificate of Origin.
• Note: Uganda has gold refining facilities and is promoting formal trade to reduce smuggling.

3. Tanzania

Authority: Ministry of Minerals and Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA).

Requirements:

• All gold exports must go through the Mineral Auction System or licensed buying centers.
• A Clearance Certificate from the Tanzania Minerals Audit Agency (TMAA) is mandatory.
• 6% royalty on gold value, plus a 1% clearance fee.
• Security: Only approved transporters can move gold to the port of exit. Raw Gold in Africa

4. Sudan

Authority: Sudanese Mineral Resources Company (SMRC).

Requirements:

• Exporters must have a license and export through approved channels.
• Gold must be certified and taxed before export.
• Sudan has strict controls to curb smuggling and illegal gold trade, especially across borders.
• Note: Export is permitted only via the Central Bank or authorized refiners

5. Mali

• Authority: Ministry of Mines and Customs Directorate.

Requirements:

• Exporters must hold a valid export license.
• Gold must be declared, valued, and taxed (approximately 3%–6% depending on the type).
• Exports must pass through official checkpoints and customs offices.
• Note: Due to political instability, export routes may be closely monitored for security.

Conclusion: Is Raw Gold in Africa Worth Investing In?

Yes. Africa’s raw gold market is rich with opportunity for investors and buyers willing to navigate the local laws, ensure ethical sourcing, and partner with licensed exporters. As gold demand continues rising in 2025, raw gold remains a valuable entry point into the global gold economy, offering higher returns when refined or traded internationally.

Are you looking to source raw gold safely in Africa? Visit Goldpricesinafrica.com for verified sellers, export assistance, and secure transactions across multiple African gold-producing countries. Raw Gold in Africa