### Mali: towards a partial relaxation of mining permits, between ambitions and realities
From March 15, 2025, the Malian government will gradually lift the suspension of the issuance of mining permits, a measure which will have notable impact on one of the most crucial economic sectors in the country. This decision is part of a context where Mali, renowned for its rich subsoil and mainly its gold, tries to attract investments again, while strengthening its sovereignty over its natural resources.
#### Reflected suspension: the quest for optimal management
Since 2022, the suspension of the allocation of new permits as well as the freezing of transfers has been adopted as a bold strategy to maximize the income generated by the mine sector. The new mining code promulgated in 2023, integrating more strict local content criteria, testifies to a desire to allow the Malian state not only to capture a significant part of mining profits, but also to promote more inclusive development:
– maximum participation of 30 % of the State in projects;
– compulsory participation of 5 % of local businesses.
This approach could be compared to that adopted by countries such as Zambia and Chile, which, after a period of abundance of foreign inflows, imposed similar conditions to guarantee a more balanced and equitable return on investment. Mali, by registering in this logic, takes a significant step towards a more autonomous management of its resources.
#### Adjustments to the philosophy of investment attraction
However, Mali has to face a major challenge: how to reconcile the increase in mining fees with the attraction for international investors? The question arises all the more since the country has not recorded major investments in the mining sector for almost a decade. This deadline for a new permit status could involve an analysis of investment trends in other West African countries. For example, actors such as Ghana have managed to create a more attractive environment by simplifying administrative procedures, despite high tax expectations.
The challenge for Mali will therefore not only be to open the way to operating licensees, but also to clearly communicate on the profits that the mining companies will draw. A delicate balance to find: too much taxation could dissuade investors, while a too lax policy could affect national interests.
#### Perspectives and challenges of sustainable development
Expanding access to permits while preserving a high level of requirement towards private actors could be one of the main challenges of years to come. In addition, the importance of investment in local skills and the creation of sustainable jobs cannot be underestimated.
Studies highlight that the countries that have integrated a strong local component into their mining projects, both in terms of supply and personnel, see measurable impacts on stability and economic growth. This model could also be accompanied by particular attention to the environmental impact of operating projects, an aspect increasingly scrutive by institutional investors and NGOs.
#### Conclusion: towards a new economic chapter
The gradual return to the issuance of mining permits in Mali marks a potential turning point in the management of the country’s natural resources. With daring ambitions and a revised regulatory framework, Mali sets itself the objective of repositioning itself on the map of mining investments. However, this approach must be accompanied by solid guarantees as to the transparency and sustainability of projects, so that the country can really capitalize on the richness of its subsoil. The eyes of the international mining sector will be riveted on this transition, while Mali seeks to make its rich mining heritage a lever for inclusive economic development.
Ultimately, the key to success will reside in the government’s ability to create an environment where corporate social responsibility is integrated authentically and where the quest for profit is aligned with broader ambitions of human development and sustainability.