Saudi investors are showing growing interest in Burkina Faso’s gold industry after the country exported around $10 billion worth of gold in 2025.
The latest interest comes from Saudi company Sarmady Co.
Its representatives met Burkina Faso’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Boukary Savadogo, in Riyadh on August 30.
The talks focused on possible investment and partnerships in Burkina Faso’s mining industry.
Saudi investors explore Burkina Faso gold opportunities
Sarmady representatives were briefed on investment opportunities and possible cooperation with local businesses.
Company representative Nouf Ali Alsalaten Al Qhatani expressed interest in investing in the West African country.
However, no financial commitment has been announced.
The company was invited to submit an investment proposal. Burkina Faso’s embassy would then forward it to the relevant authorities for consideration.
The discussions come as Burkina Faso seeks closer economic ties with Saudi Arabia.
In April, around 20 Saudi investors met Burkinabe officials in Riyadh. The two sides discussed opportunities in mining, energy, finance, aviation, agriculture and international trade.
Burkina Faso gold exports reach $10 billion
Gold has become increasingly important to Burkina Faso’s economy.
The country exported 99.13 tonnes of gold worth CFA5.88 trillion, or roughly $10 billion, in 2025.
Gold represented more than 91% of Burkina Faso’s total export value, according to customs figures.
Total gold production exceeded 94 tonnes during the year. Around 42 tonnes came from artisanal mining.
The mining industry also generated more than CFA776 billion, or around $1.4 billion, in government revenue in 2025.
Burkina Faso pushes for greater control of gold
The government is seeking to increase domestic control over the country’s mineral wealth.
Authorities want more of the value generated by gold production to remain inside Burkina Faso rather than leave the country.
That policy is unfolding alongside growing interest from international investors in the country’s mining industry.