90 mining exploration permits cancelled in Mali due to non-compliance

Mali’s government has reportedly cancelled more than 90 mining exploration permits for minerals such as bauxite, uranium, rare earths, gold, iron ore, and more. The government decided that companies failing to meet new regulatory requirements would have their permits cancelled.

The move, confirmed through an official decree seen by Reuters, affects local branches of well-known mining firms such as Harmony Gold, IAMGOLD, Cora Gold, Birimian Gold, and Resolute Mining.

Exploration zones now open for new allocations

According to a statement from the Ministry of Mines, permit holders were required to submit specific documents under recently introduced mining laws. After review, authorities found that many had not complied.

“All rights linked to the revoked permits are now released,” the decree states, adding that the affected exploration zones are open for reassignment. The government has not said whether affected companies can appeal or reapply for new permits.

Regional trend towards stricter oversight

The new development mirrors similar actions in other African nations, such as Guinea, where governments have tightened their grip over the mining sector. In fact, many exploration permits were revoked due to inactivity or failure to comply. This initiative of the government, though tough, is actually aimed at increasing revenue and simultaneously protecting national resources.

The Malian decree, signed on October 13 by Mines Minister Amadou Keita and reviewed by Reuters on October 29, withdraws exploration rights granted between 2015 and 2022. These covered a wide range of minerals such as bauxite, uranium, rare earth elements, gold, iron ore, and more.