The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has extended the deadline for gold traders to reapply for licenses under its new regulatory framework to May 21, 2025. The move grants an additional three weeks to dealers who previously held licenses issued by the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) or the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
Announcing the extension at a press briefing on April 30, Acting CEO Sammy Gyamfi stressed that this would be the final deadline. While some traders have begun the application process, he noted that many have yet to complete it. The grace period, he said, aims to ensure fairness while enforcing compliance with the new regime.
Under the Ghana Gold Board Act (Act 1140), all prior gold trading licenses are now invalid. The Act grants GoldBod exclusive authority over the purchase, sale, assaying, and export of gold from licensed small-scale miners—part of a broader strategy to formalize gold trade, combat illegal mining, and strengthen Ghana’s foreign exchange reserves.
Application Requirements and Enforcement
Applicants must submit:
- Business registration documentation
- Financial disclosures
- Tax compliance certificates
- Anti-money laundering declarations
Incomplete or erroneous applications may lead to disqualification. After May 21, trading without a valid GoldBod license will constitute a criminal offense, Mr. Gyamfi warned.
The public is advised to visit goldbod.gov.gh for application guidelines and updates.
By: J.W Quarm
