The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has announced the temporary suspension of applications for selected categories of gold buying licences, a move aimed at paving the way for sweeping regulatory reforms intended to strengthen and modernise Ghana’s gold trading regime.
In an official statement issued on Monday, February 16, 2026, GoldBod explained that the directive forms part of a broader strategic reform process designed to enhance transparency, improve compliance, and ensure greater value retention within Ghana’s gold trading ecosystem.
The suspension takes immediate effect and applies specifically to new applications for Tier 1 and Tier 2 gold buying licences, as well as the Self-Financing Aggregator Licence.
GoldBod clarified that during the suspension period, the Aggregator Licence will remain the only gold trading licensing category open for new applications.
This temporary restriction, according to the Board, is a deliberate measure to streamline licensing processes and allow authorities the necessary space to implement reforms that will create a more accountable and internationally competitive gold trading framework.
“The suspension affects new applications for Tier 1 and Tier 2 buying licences as well as the Self-Financing Aggregator Licence with immediate effect,” the statement noted.
In a move to reassure stakeholders, GoldBod emphasized that all applications submitted prior to the announcement will continue to be processed.
The Board further pledged to expedite the review and issuance of pending buying licence applications, provided applicants meet all regulatory requirements and fulfil the necessary fee obligations.
GoldBod’s assurance is expected to bring relief to individuals and companies who have already invested time and resources into the licensing process.
Strengthening Ghana’s Gold Governance
The suspension comes at a time when Ghana is intensifying efforts to reform the gold sector, which remains one of the country’s most critical sources of foreign exchange and national revenue.
GoldBod stated that the impending reforms are designed to enhance traceability in gold trading, curb irregularities, and improve oversight across the gold value chain.
Experts believe the move could significantly reduce unregulated gold trading activities and strengthen Ghana’s position on the global minerals market.
“The reforms are designed to enhance transparency, improve compliance, strengthen traceability, and ensure greater value retention within Ghana’s gold trading ecosystem,” the Board stated.
GoldBod reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with stakeholders across the gold value chain, including licensed gold buyers, aggregators, exporters, and regulatory institutions, to build a robust and accountable trading regime that safeguards the national interest.
The Board indicated that further updates on the reform process and the revised licensing framework will be communicated in due course.
A Step Toward Modernising the Sector
The temporary suspension is widely seen as a significant step in Ghana’s ongoing efforts to modernise the gold buying and trading sector, ensuring it aligns with international best practices while protecting the country’s mineral wealth.
Industry players and prospective licence applicants have been urged to remain patient as GoldBod undertakes the regulatory overhaul, which is expected to reshape the gold trading landscape in the months ahead.
The statement was signed by the Management of the Ghana Gold Board, under the leadership of its Chief Executive Officer, Samuel Gyamfi, Esq.
