The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Transport, has announced an immediate ban on the importation of excavators without prior approval, enforcing the newly introduced “No Permit, No Excavator” policy.
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In a statement issued on Thursday, June 5, 2025, the Ministry alerted excavator dealers, importers, and the general public of the new directive, which aims to bolster government efforts in fighting illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, and preserving vital water resources.
“All shipping lines are hereby directed to cease transporting excavators into Ghana unless a valid permit is presented,” the statement emphasized.
Dealers and importers must now obtain authorization from the Ministry of Transport before bringing any excavator into the country. Non-compliance could result in the seizure of equipment and possible legal action.
This announcement comes shortly after President John Mahama addressed the Global Mining in Motion Summit on Monday, June 2, 2025. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to ending illegal mining, stating:
“We are going to change the permitting regime. You will not be allowed to import an excavator or put it on a ship unless you get a permit first.”
The stricter control measures are part of the government’s renewed clampdown on illegal mining, which has led to environmental degradation, especially the pollution of rivers and farmlands across the country.
