Product Overview
Gold ore is a naturally occurring mineral from which gold can be economically extracted. It is typically found in veins or alluvial deposits and is mined either from hard rock or placer sources. Nigeria is blessed with vast gold reserves in multiple states, making it a significant player in Africa’s gold export market.
Uses of Gold
-
Jewelry & Luxury Items – Primary use of refined gold due to its luster and durability.
-
Financial Reserve – Stored by central banks as a hedge against inflation and currency devaluation.
-
Electronics – Used in connectors, switches, and high-precision components due to its conductivity and resistance to corrosion.
-
Medical Applications – In dentistry, implants, and certain medical devices.
-
Aerospace Industry – Coating spacecraft components for radiation protection.
Sources in Nigeria
Key gold-producing states include:
-
Osun
-
Zamfara
-
Niger
-
Kaduna
-
Kebbi
-
Kwara
Gold is mined both on a large scale by licensed companies and by artisanal miners.
Export Forms
-
Gold Ore (Unprocessed) – Typically with a purity of 15–30% Au content.
-
Gold Concentrate – Processed to 85–90% purity.
-
Refined Gold (Bullion/Bars) – 99.5–99.99% purity.
Export Specifications
| Parameter | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Purity (Au) | 15–30% (Ore) / 85–99.99% (Refined) |
| Form | Ore, Concentrate, or Bullion |
| Moisture Content | < 1% |
| Size | As mined or crushed (buyer specs) |
| Packaging | 50kg sealed sacks or secure metal containers |
| HS Code | 26169000 (Ores & concentrates of precious metals) / 71081200 (Gold in unwrought forms) |
Required Documentation
-
NEPC Export License
-
Mining Lease or Proof of Purchase from Licensed Miner
-
Certificate of Origin
-
Commercial Invoice & Packing List
-
Assay Report from an Accredited Laboratory
-
Form NXP (Nigeria Export Proceeds Form)
-
Ministry of Mines Export Permit
-
Security Clearance for High-Value Cargo
Major Export Destinations
-
United Arab Emirates (Dubai)
-
Switzerland
-
China
-
South Africa
-
India
-
Turkey
Export Tips
-
Security: Gold shipments require maximum security; partner with reputable logistics companies.
-
Testing: Always obtain an independent assay report to confirm purity before shipment.
-
Regulations: Nigeria recently tightened gold export rules — ensure compliance to avoid seizure.
-
Value Addition: Refining before export can multiply profit margins significantly.
