Barrick faces critical court ruling in Mali as the dispute escalates

The Market Online

26-05-2025

A pivotal ruling is expected on June 2nd from the President of the Bamako Commercial Tribunal in a high-stakes legal battle between Barrick Gold Corp. (TSX:ABX) and the Malian government over the future of the Loulo-Gounkoto mining complex
The government's move, which Barrick has described as legally unfounded and unprecedented, seeks to transfer control of the site to a court-appointed administrator
Barrick has operated in Mali for nearly 30 years, contributing significantly to the country's economy and social development
Barrick Mining stock (TSX:ABX) last traded at C$26.18
A pivotal ruling is expected on June 2nd from the President of the Bamako Commercial Tribunal in a high-stakes legal battle between Barrick Gold Corp. (TSX:ABX) and the Malian government over the future of the Loulo-Gounkoto mining complex.
The decision follows submissions made on May 22 by Barrick's Malian subsidiaries opposing the government's May 8 request to place the mining operations under provisional administration. The government's move, which Barrick has described as legally unfounded and unprecedented, seeks to transfer control of the site to a court-appointed administrator.
In a media release, Barrick strongly rejected the government's claims, asserting that there is no legal or operational justification for such an intervention. The company emphasized that the attempt to seize control of the Loulo-Gounkoto complex violates both Malian law and the terms of its binding agreements with the state.
This legal escalation comes amid a broader dispute that has seen several Barrick employees detained for over five months and the suspension of gold exports from the site. Despite these challenges, Barrick has continued to pay wages and support the suspended operations.
Barrick has operated in Mali for nearly 30 years, contributing significantly to the country's economy and social development. The company has initiated international arbitration proceedings under the dispute resolution mechanisms outlined in its Mining Conventions and has stated its willingness to engage in dialogue with the Malian government.
In a letter sent last week to Mali's Minister of Economy and Finances, Barrick reaffirmed its readiness to negotiate a resolution that would secure the release of its detained employees and allow for the resumption of mining activities.
As the June 2 ruling approaches, the outcome could have far-reaching implications not only for Barrick's operations in Mali but also for investor confidence in the country's mining sector.
Barrick Mining Corp. is the world's second-largest gold producer with ownership interests in producing gold mines in Argentina, Canada, Cote d'Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Dominican Republic, Mali, Tanzania and the United States.
Barrick Mining stock (TSX:ABX) last traded at C$26.18 and has risen 12.51 per cent since this time last year.
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