Top African Countries to Buy Gold in 2026: Cameroon vs Ghana vs Mali
Africa is home to some of the world’s richest gold reserves, attracting investors and private buyers seeking high-quality physical gold. As demand for gold rises globally, 2026 presents new opportunities for buyers to source gold from trusted African suppliers. Among the leading countries, Cameroon, Ghana, and Mali stand out due to their rich deposits, active mining industry, and export potential.
This guide compares these countries, focusing on their legal environment, risk levels, and profit margins to help investors make informed decisions when buying gold in Africa.
1. Country Comparison: Cameroon, Ghana, and Mali
| Country | Gold Production (Annual) | Key Gold Types | Major Mines | Export Readiness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cameroon | ~100 tons (estimated) | Dore bars, dust, nuggets, unrefined ore | Bertoua, Lom | High; fully compliant with CEMAC regulations |
| Ghana | ~140 tons | Gold bars, dust, nuggets | Obuasi, Tarkwa | High; regulated by Ghanaian Minerals Commission |
| Mali | ~70 tons | Gold bars, nuggets | Sadiola, Loulo | Moderate; some logistical challenges |
- Cameroon is emerging as a reliable gold supplier for private investors and refineries. Bonasgold offers gold dore bars, gold dust, gold nuggets, and unrefined gold ore directly to buyers worldwide.
- Ghana, known as “Gold Coast,” has a long-standing history of gold production and is suitable for both small-scale and bulk investments.
- Mali offers profitable gold opportunities but requires careful planning for transport and legal compliance.
For more information on buying gold in Cameroon, explore how to buy physical gold from Africa.
2. Legal Environment
Understanding the legal landscape is critical to avoid scams and ensure smooth transactions.
Cameroon
- Gold trading is legal when accompanied by proper documentation such as export licenses and SKRs.
- Bonasgold provides buyers with full compliance support, including CEMAC Buyer’s Permit guidance (learn more).
- Export-ready products include 24K, 23K, and 18K gold bars (compare gold purity).
Ghana
- Gold buyers must register with the Minerals Commission and comply with local tax laws.
- The Ghanaian government supports both domestic and international buyers but maintains strict verification processes.
Mali
- Mali requires permits from the Mining Directorate and customs authorities.
- Regulatory enforcement can be inconsistent in rural mining regions, making local partnerships essential.
For a comprehensive guide, see is it legal to buy gold in Cameroon.
3. Risk Level
Investing in African gold involves country-specific risks:
- Cameroon: Low to moderate risk with reputable suppliers like Bonasgold offering secure transactions and CIF/FBO shipping options.
- Ghana: Moderate risk; high production makes scams less frequent, but international buyers must verify authenticity and compliance.
- Mali: Moderate to high risk due to remote mines and logistical challenges. Working with verified local partners is recommended.
Investors should also consider political stability, transport infrastructure, and gold purity assurance when assessing risk.
4. Profit Margins
Profit margins depend on gold type, purchase volume, and market prices.
- Cameroon: Offers competitive pricing due to low overhead and direct sourcing (buy gold dore bars from Cameroon).
- Ghana: Gold is generally more expensive but consistent in quality; suitable for resale in Europe and Asia.
- Mali: Margins can be high if buyers navigate export logistics efficiently.
For buyers looking to maximize returns, consider purchasing unrefined gold ore for refineries or premium raw gold.
5. How to Buy Gold Safely from These Countries
Step 1: Verify Supplier
- Ensure the supplier is registered and transparent. Bonasgold is a trusted supplier with KYC verification.
Step 2: Confirm Legal Compliance
- Obtain necessary permits (e.g., CEMAC Buyer’s Permit for Cameroon).
Step 3: Choose Gold Type
- Decide between gold bars, nuggets, dust, or unrefined ore.
Step 4: Secure Shipment
- Use CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) or FOB (Free on Board) shipping options (learn about shipping from Cameroon).
Step 5: Monitor Market Prices
- Track gold prices in Cameroon and international markets to optimize profits.
For more detailed guides, check:
- How to buy gold from Africa to Dubai
- How to buy gold from Africa to the UK
- Buying gold in South Africa
6. Why Cameroon is a Top Choice in 2026
Cameroon combines legal security, competitive pricing, and high-quality gold deposits. Bonasgold offers a full range of gold products, including:
Private investors and refineries benefit from Bonasgold’s direct sourcing, secure shipping, and full compliance with international trade standards. Learn why you should buy gold today from Cameroon.
Investing in African gold in 2026 requires careful country selection, compliance with legal frameworks, and secure transactions. Cameroon emerges as a top choice for investors seeking high-quality gold with low risk and competitive profit margins, followed closely by Ghana and Mali, each offering unique advantages.
For safe and profitable gold purchases, partner with trusted suppliers like Bonasgold to access a variety of products and enjoy seamless global shipping.
Explore more:
Contact Bonasgold: [email protected] | 📞 +237 675 915 154 | https://bonasgold.net

