By Brandon Moss
Gold remains one of Africa’s most valuable export commodities, underpinning national economies and shaping global trade flows. In 2025, a combination of long-established producers and rising exporters dominate the continent’s gold landscape, with five countries standing out for their performance in both value and volume.
Ghana: A Reform-Driven Surge
Ghana has emerged as Africa’s standout gold exporter in 2025, propelled by sweeping reforms in the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector. The creation of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has centralized licensing, tightened regulations, and introduced transparent aggregation systems, while cracking down on illegal mining and smuggling.
The results have been dramatic. In just the first half of 2025, Ghana exported more than US$5 billion worth of gold, already surpassing its total exports for 2024. By August, ASM exports alone had reached approximately 66.7 tonnes, valued at US$6.3 billion. These figures confirm Ghana’s position as a continental leader and highlight the potential of formalized ASM to drive national revenue.
South Africa: A Legacy Exporter Under Pressure
South Africa remains one of Africa’s top gold exporters, though its dominance has waned compared to its historic peaks. In 2024–2025, the country’s gold exports were valued at around US$8.17 billion.
Despite challenges such as rising production costs, deeper ore bodies, regulatory hurdles, and labor disputes, South Africa continues to benefit from large-scale industrial mining and world-class infrastructure. While output is under pressure, its export base remains resilient, ensuring the country’s continued relevance in global gold markets.
Tanzania: Rising Through the Ranks
Tanzania is rapidly gaining ground as a gold exporter. For the year ending August 2025, gold exports reached about US$4.32 billion, a sharp increase from US$3.19 billion in the same period a year earlier.
The growth has been fueled by favorable global gold prices, increased production, and stronger participation from both industrial and small-scale miners. Gold now ranks among Tanzania’s top exports by value, reinforcing its role as a key driver of foreign exchange earnings.
Burkina Faso: A Growing Industrial Powerhouse
Burkina Faso continues to cement its place among Africa’s leading gold exporters. In 2024, the country produced approximately 60.8 tonnes of gold, up from 56.8 tonnes in 2023, with the vast majority destined for export.
Gold is central to Burkina Faso’s economy, representing a significant share of export earnings. The government is working to strengthen refining and processing capacity while tightening regulations to curb fraud, smuggling, and inefficiencies. These reforms are expected to enhance the sector’s long-term sustainability and contribution to national development.
Mali: A Major Player Despite Uncertainty
Mali remains one of Africa’s major gold exporters, supported by both large industrial mines and extensive artisanal activity. While precise export data for 2025 is still emerging, Mali continues to rank among the continent’s top producers by both volume and value.
Recent policy decisions, including the suspension of some ASM permits for foreign companies, have introduced uncertainty. Nevertheless, Mali’s gold sector remains a cornerstone of its economy, and the country is expected to retain its place among Africa’s leading exporters.
Africa’s Golden Outlook
In 2025, Africa’s gold exports continue to shine, driving growth and shaping economies across the continent. While challenges remain — from regulatory hurdles to infrastructure gaps — the momentum shows no sign of slowing. With reforms in ASM, rising industrial output, and sustained global demand, Africa’s gold sector is poised to remain a pillar of the continent’s economic future.