The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has announced the immediate suspension of applications for selected categories of gold-buying licences as it prepares to implement comprehensive reforms across the sector.
In a statement issued on Monday, 16 February 2026, the Board confirmed that new applications for Tier 1, Tier 2, and Self-Financing Aggregator licences are no longer being accepted with immediate effect. During this period, only the Aggregator Licence category will remain open to prospective applicants.
GoldBod assured all stakeholders that applications submitted prior to the announcement will continue to be processed. The Board said it would expedite the review and issuance of pending applications, provided applicants meet all regulatory requirements and have fulfilled the necessary fee obligations.
According to management, the suspension is part of broader measures to prepare for reforms in the national gold-buying framework, which aim to modernise the sector and enhance regulatory oversight. The Board noted that these reforms are intended to strengthen transparency in gold transactions, improve compliance with existing laws, and enhance traceability throughout the gold value chain.
The reforms are also expected to safeguard Ghana’s interests by ensuring that the nation retains greater value from its gold resources while aligning the sector with international best practices. GoldBod stated that the changes would benefit all stakeholders, including licensed buyers, aggregators, and exporters, by creating a more accountable and competitive trading environment.
Management further emphasised its commitment to collaborating with stakeholders across the gold value chain to ensure that the reforms are implemented smoothly. The Board assured that the measures are being undertaken in a manner that will not disadvantage applicants who have already submitted their licence applications.
GoldBod indicated that further updates on the reform process, as well as details of the revised licensing framework, will be communicated in due course.
Read the attached statement in full below:
