Mali Revokes Over 90 Mining Exploration Permits Due to Non-Compliance

The government of Mali has revoked more than 90 mining exploration permits, including those held by international companies, due to failure to meet new legal requirements. According to a decree signed by Mines Minister Amadou Keita, all rights under the canceled permits are now released and open for reallocation. The affected permits, issued between 2015 and 2022, covered exploration for various minerals, including gold, iron ore, bauxite, uranium, and rare earths.

The mining ministry stated that companies were asked to resubmit documents under updated rules, but widespread non-compliance led to the cancellations. It is unclear at this time if firms can appeal the decision. The move is seen as part of a broader effort by African nations to tighten control over their natural resources. Mali, one of the continent’s top gold producers, has faced declining foreign investment in recent years amid growing insecurity and regulatory shifts.

The military-led government has been strengthening ties with Russia, signing new energy and mining deals that include petroleum supplies and joint ventures in gold and lithium. This development comes as Mali seeks to assert greater control over its mineral resources and attract new investment. The revocation of the permits is likely to have significant implications for the country’s mining sector, which is a key contributor to its economy.

The decision to cancel the permits is part of a wider trend of African countries seeking to renegotiate contracts and increase their share of revenue from natural resource extraction. As Mali continues to navigate its complex security and economic landscape, the government’s efforts to reform the mining sector and attract new investment will be closely watched by international observers. The reallocation of the revoked permits is expected to be a key area of focus in the coming months, as the government seeks to balance the needs of local communities, international investors, and the national economy.