Accra: The Ghana Gold Board ('GoldBod') has opened applications for Jewellery and Fabrication Licences (Categories A, B, and C), as well as Refinery Licenses, effective October 22, 2025. This move is part of GoldBod's effort to formalize downstream gold value-addition, enhance regulatory compliance, and promote sustainable industry growth in line with the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140).
According to Ghana News Agency, a statement from the Board in Accra highlighted that only individuals with proper licensing are permitted to engage in gold trading, jewellery manufacturing, gold fabrication, and refining businesses in Ghana. Engaging in these activities without a valid GoldBod license is considered an offense punishable under Act 1140. The statement also clarified that all previous licenses from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources are now invalid under the new legal framework.
Existing jewellery manufacturers, fabricators, and gold refineries must regularize their operations by acquiring a license under the Ghana Gold Board Act (ACT 1140), 2025 by December 31, 2025. Operating without a GoldBod license beyond this deadline will be considered a criminal offense.
Applications are to be submitted exclusively through the official GoldBod website, www.goldbod.gov.gh, with no manual or in-person submissions accepted. Applicants are urged to thoroughly review eligibility requirements, documentation checklists, and applicable fee schedules available on the website prior to submission.
The new license categories include Jewellery and Fabrication Licence - Category A for Ghanaian sole proprietor artisans and small-scale jewellery businesses for local sale. Category B targets medium-sized Ghanaian businesses for local sale and export, while Category C is for large-scale companies, both local and foreign, for local sale and export. The Refinery Licence is designated for entities planning to operate gold refineries in Ghana.