Mali: Suspension of mining permits will be partially lifted...

Mali, a country rich in mineral resources, has announced the partial lifting of the suspension on mining permits, effective from March 15, 2025. This decision, confirmed by the Malian Ministry of Mines, marks a key step in the revival of the national mining sector.

According to the official statement, the mining administration will resume processing applications for the renewal of exploration and exploitation permits, as well as transitions from exploration to exploitation phases. However, the issuance of new mining titles remains suspended, signaling the authorities’ intent to better regulate and oversee the sector before any further openings.

The mining sector is one of the pillars of Mali’s economy, with gold accounting for over 80% of the country’s exports. This partial lifting comes at a time when the Malian government seeks to optimize the management of its natural resources while ensuring a more equitable and sovereign exploitation.

Indeed, the ongoing transition in Mali has strengthened the country’s determination to control its mining sector, particularly by revising the conditions for granting and managing permits to avoid abuses and the appropriation of wealth by foreign interests.

This announcement is good news for the mining companies already operating in Mali, as it allows them to extend their activities and transition more easily from exploration to exploitation. However, potential investors will have to wait, as new permits remain frozen until further notice.