Guinean President Mamadi Doumbouya has announced a ban on the export of raw gold, marking a major shift in the country's mining policy as it seeks to increase local processing, create jobs, and capture greater value from its vast mineral wealth.

The announcement was made during a meeting in Conakry with representatives from industrial, semi-industrial, and artisanal gold mining operations, as well as gold traders and buying offices.

The new policy aims to ensure that gold produced in Guinea is refined domestically rather than exported in unprocessed form.

Authorities say the measure forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen local industry, boost government revenues, and increase economic benefits from the mining sector.

The government has repeatedly emphasized that Guinea's future development depends on transforming its natural resources at home instead of exporting raw materials.

A key pillar of the initiative is the expansion of local refining capacity, including the Nimba Gold Refinery in Conakry, which is expected to play a central role in processing gold for both domestic and international markets.

The move follows similar efforts by the government in the bauxite sector, where companies have been encouraged to invest in local processing facilities.

President Doumbouya's administration has made resource beneficiation and industrial development central components of its long-term economic vision.

Guinea remains one of Africa's important gold producers, supported by both large-scale mining operations and a significant artisanal mining sector.