Tanzania Moves to Keep More Gold Value at Home
The Government of Tanzania has announced plans to require large-scale gold producers to refine and trade at least 20% of their total output within the country. The measure, now under review by the Ministry of Minerals, seeks to accelerate Tanzania’s transition from a raw-export economy to a more value-driven mining industry. Officials noted that the new rule will apply to all major producers, including Barrick Gold and AngloGold Ashanti, which together account for more than 70% of Tanzania’s gold exports.
A Policy Shift Toward Beneficiation
By mandating domestic refining, the government aims to expand its nascent mineral beneficiation industry, promote technology transfer, and boost fiscal returns through refined-product exports. The directive builds on the 2017 Mining Act reforms, which strengthened state participation and established local trading centers to formalize gold transactions. Authorities believe that refining gold locally will enhance transparency, reduce smuggling, and create employment across the logistics, energy, and processing segments of the mining value chain.
Regional Context and Global Implications
Tanzania’s initiative mirrors a broader regional trend across Africa, where mineral-rich economies such as Zimbabwe and Ghana are pushing for downstream value capture rather than dependence on raw exports. With global demand for responsibly sourced and traceable gold rising, the country’s shift may also improve its standing in sustainable supply chains. If implemented effectively, the 20% domestic refining mandate could turn Tanzania into one of East Africa’s leading gold-processing hubs—positioning the country as both a producer and a processor in the global minerals market.