Council of Ministers Focuses on Mines, Sugar Industry, and Economic Reforms

Bamako, February 13, 2026 - In an ordinary session at the Koulouba Palace chaired by President Assimi Goïta, the Council of Ministers adopted several measures with significant economic impact, particularly in the mining, industrial, and commercial sectors. Under the Ministry of Mines, the Council approved a draft decree renewing the gold mining permit for the Loulo Mining Company (SOMILO S.A.). Originally granted in 1996 for the exploitation of the Loulo gold mine in the Kéniéba district, the permit is renewed for ten years. Feasibility studies by Barrick Mining Corporation indicate that exploitable reserves could support substantial production, boosting the mining sector’s contribution to the national economy. In the industrial and commercial sector, the Council noted the official launch of the 2025-2026 sugar campaign for SUKALA and N-SUKALA, with an anticipated combined production of approximately 120,000 tons, meeting nearly 34% of Mali’s annual sugar needs. Measures have been implemented to ensure domestic supply ahead of Ramadan 2026. These decisions reflect the authorities’ commitment to strengthening Mali’s economic sovereignty through the development of natural resources, support for local production, and securing essential goods, amid ongoing economic and geopolitical challenges.