Ghana has fallen seven positions in the latest Global Mining Investment Attractiveness (IAI) ranking, moving from 46th out of 82 jurisdictions in 2024 to 53rd out of 68 in 2025, according to a survey conducted by JOYBUSSINESS. On the African continent, Ghana now ranks 8th out of 16 countries, just ahead of South Africa, with an overall score of 55%.
The survey, conducted electronically between August 5 and November 26, 2025, targeted roughly 2,304 mining professionals, including over 46% company presidents or vice-presidents and more than 25% managers or senior managers. Participating companies reported total exploration spending of US$4.2 billion for the year.
The IAI evaluates jurisdictions based on two main components: the Best Practices Mineral Potential Index, which measures geological potential, and the Policy Perception Index, which assesses how government policies influence exploration sentiment. The Fraser Institute, which compiles the rankings, adjusts the number of jurisdictions assessed each year based on commodity price changes and mining-sector activity.
In Ghana, the ranking decline comes amid concerns from mining companies over proposed government reforms to taxes and sector policies. Some firms interviewed by JOYBUSSINESS warned that if implemented, these reforms could affect both profitability and employment. The government, however, insists that the changes are intended to ensure that Ghana derives greater benefits from its mineral resources while balancing investment incentives with national economic interests.
