Barrick Mining is awaiting a June 2 ruling from the Bamako Commercial Tribunal president after its Loulo and Gounkoto mines opposed the Mali government’s request to place the mining complex under provisional administration.
The government formally submitted its request on May 8, but Barrick argues there is no basis—either in law or in practice for the court to appoint an interim administrator.
The dispute follows the Mali government’s continued detention of several Barrick employees for five months—which the company calls “unlawful”—and a blockage of gold exports over alleged tax noncompliance. Barrick maintains it has kept paying wages and supporting operations despite recent suspensions.
Last week, Barrick reiterated its willingness to negotiate with Mali’s Economy and Finance Minister to secure the release of its employees and resume operations.
The company says it is pursuing a “fair and sustainable resolution”, including international arbitration under the mining conventions’ dispute resolution mechanism.
Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor-In-Chief, Rough & Polished
