List: Top 20 gold-producing countries, No. 17 will surprise you

Global gold production continues to rise, setting new records.

According to the World Gold Council, mine production reached approximately 3,660 tonnes in 2024, with projections suggesting it could surpass 3,750 tonnes in 2025 — the highest-ever recorded. ​

Gold remains in high demand due to its historical role as a safe-haven asset during periods of financial instability, a hedge against inflation, and a store of value preferred by central banks, investors, and consumers alike.

In terms of gold production, China remains the global leader, accounting for about 10% of all mined gold. Africa as a region leads in total production fuelled by Ghana, Mali, and South Africa, while Australia and Russia are consistently high performers due to vast reserves and advanced mining operations.

The US, thanks to Nevada's prolific mines, ranks among the top five.Latin America, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia all contribute significantly, illustrating the global reach and diverse geography of modern gold mining.​

Each nation’s output, main mining areas, and production highlights are summarised for a global perspective on the gold mining industry (2024–2025 data as per World Gold Council).

Source: World Gold Council

Gold mining is a key industry in Guinea, due to its rich mineral wealth and the unique blend of large-scale commercial operations alongside a significant artisanal mining sector.

Guinea is among the leading gold producers in West Africa, with gold mining contributing over 50% of the country's export revenue.

The northeastern Siguiri region is a key area, historically producing between 1.05 and 4.1 tons of gold annually.

Artisanal and small-scale gold miners produce approximately 32 tons annually, often using mercury-based methods but increasingly formalizing under initiatives like planetGOLD to improve traceability and environmental impact.

Guinea's vast mineral reserves, favorable legal framework, and government support have attracted global mining companies, driving growth in gold production and investments.

However, challenges such as environmental concerns, informal mining practices, and the need for sustainable development remain central to the industry landscape. ​

This mix of enormous potential, strategic importance, and socio-environmental complexity makes Guinea an intriguing and vital player in global gold mining.