World’s largest cocoa producer to begin operations at new gold refinery as it aims to become Africa’s largest gold producer - Business Insider Africa

AI desk brief

Ivory Coast will launch a new state-backed gold refinery in early 2027 with capacity to process up to 100 metric tons a year, matching the country’s projected industrial mine output. The move supports a broader target to lift national production from about 60t currently to 100t by 2030 and eventually become Africa’s largest gold producer by 2035.

The refinery, operated by Simep, will market output in partnership with StoneX Group, while mine expansions at Perseus Mining’s Yaouré and Montage Gold’s Koné are expected to help lift supply. The article also highlights a wider African trend toward local mineral processing and export restrictions on unprocessed minerals.