Malian Authorities Reopen Barrick Mining Office Amid Tax Dispute

Malian tax officials have reopened Barrick Mining's office in Bamako under a court-appointed administrator after it was closed over tax disputes. The development follows a Malian court placing Barrick's Loulo-Gounkoto gold complex under state control. Former health minister Soumana Makadji is named provisional administrator and will resume operations soon.

Malian tax authorities have taken a significant step by reopening Barrick Mining's Bamako office under the guidance of a court-appointed administrator, following its closure in April due to alleged tax evasion issues, according to sources.

The strategic move came after a Malian court's decision on June 16 to place Barrick's Loulo-Gounkoto gold complex under state oversight, amid escalating tensions over taxes and ownership claims.

Former health minister Soumana Makadji has been appointed as the provisional administrator. While Barrick plans to appeal this decision, Makadji is poised to resume operations and will visit the site this week.

(With inputs from agencies.)