The Tanzanian government has announced plans to tighten regulations on gold processing, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen transparency, curb smuggling, and ensure the country reaps maximum value from its mineral wealth.
The Ministry of Minerals revealed that new measures will soon be introduced to regulate how gold is refined, transported, and exported. Under the planned framework, all gold processing plants will be required to meet stricter licensing conditions and comply with updated environmental and safety standards.
Authorities say the move is aimed at curbing illegal operations and improving oversight of the lucrative sector, which contributes significantly to Tanzania’s export earnings. Officials have raised concerns over unregulated refining facilities and gaps in tracking the gold supply chain, which they say have led to revenue losses and underreporting.
The new regulations will also require processors to install digital monitoring systems that can provide real-time data to the government on gold volumes handled and refined. In addition, processors will have to submit regular compliance reports and undergo periodic audits.
“We want every gram of gold to be accounted for,” a senior official at the ministry said. “This is about safeguarding our national resources and ensuring communities benefit from what is extracted from their land.”
The reforms are part of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s wider drive to formalise the mining sector and attract credible investment. The government has also pledged to support small-scale miners by improving access to licensed refineries and ensuring fairer pricing mechanisms.
Tanzania is one of Africa’s top gold producers, and officials believe that tightening controls on processing will boost investor confidence, reduce smuggling, and increase state revenue.
The new rules are expected to be rolled out in phases, starting later this year.
