Mali mining sector regulatory changes

Mali is undergoing a period of administrative restructuring within its mining sector following the adoption of a new mining code in August 2023.

In late 2026, the country began a gradual resumption of processing mining research permits, which had been suspended since November 2022. During August and September 2026, 21 permit files were processed, primarily focusing on renewals, transfers, and the conversion of research permits into exploitation permits. Recent approvals have included gold and lithium projects in several regions, benefiting companies such as Cora Gold.

Concurrently, the government has taken decisive regulatory action by revoking gold exploitation permits. Specifically, Prime Minister Abdoulaye Maïga signed decrees cancelling two permits held by Nguvu Mining, affecting Ségala Mining Corporation and Société d’Exploitation des Mines de Kofi. These revocations, cited under the 2023 Mining Code, require site closure and rehabilitation. The move follows similar nationalisation trends in the region, such as the recent takeover of the Samira Hill mine in Niger.