Mali Gold Output Surges 30% in H1 2026, Exceeds Government Forecast
Mining News | 2026-08-19 05:14:04
Mali’s future production pipeline looks promising. Authorities recently approved a large-scale mining permit for B2Gold’s Menankoto project.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Mali’s industrial gold production jumped nearly 30% in the first half of 2026. The robust production figures point to a strong recovery for the West African producer, amidst mining sector challenges.
According to official data, Mali's mines produced 23.5 tonnes of gold between January and June, compared with roughly 18 tonnes during the same period last year. The figure also exceeded the government’s forecast of 21.2 tonnes for the period. Furthermore, it puts Mali on course to meet or potentially exceed its 2026 industrial production target of 43.2 tonnes.
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Mali’s gold industry faced significant disruption in 2025 as the government introduced reforms aimed at increasing state revenues and strengthening control over mining operations. Subsequently, the country’s industrial gold production fell to 42.2 tonnes last year, well below the record 66.5 tonnes achieved in 2023.
B2Gold’s Fekola operation was the leading producer during the first six months, delivering 8.85 tonnes. Barrick’s Loulo mine followed with 6.9 tonnes. Resolute produced 3 tonnes, while Allied contributed 3.5 tonnes.
Mali’s future production pipeline looks promising. Authorities recently approved a large-scale mining permit for B2Gold’s Menankoto project. The mine is expected to produce more than 150,000 ounces annually from 2028. Also, Toubani Resources’ Kobada project, with a planned output of nearly 162,000 ounces per annum, is targeting first gold in 2027.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How much gold did Mali produce in H1 2026?
Mali’s industrial mines produced 23.5 tonnes of gold between January and June 2026. This was nearly 30% higher than the roughly 18 tonnes recorded a year earlier.
- Which mine was Mali’s largest gold producer in H1?
B2Gold’s Fekola operation led production with 8.85 tonnes. Barrick’s Loulo mine ranked second with 6.9 tonnes.
- What is Mali’s industrial gold production target for 2026?
The government has set a 2026 industrial production target of 43.2 tonnes. H1 output has already put the country on a path to meet or potentially exceed that goal.
