WGC, OMM partner to advance artisanal and small-scale gold mining

The article is primarily about a new partnership between the World Gold Council (WGC) and OCIM Metals and Mining SA (OMM) to formalize artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM). The MoU aims to improve traceability, due diligence, environmental standards, and labor practices while reducing illicit trade and mercury pollution in gold supply chains. It also supports WGC’s Gold Processing Initiative, which seeks formalization models in host countries and blueprint frameworks for policymakers and investors. The market relevance is constructive for gold supply-chain transparency and could support longer-term legitimacy and financing for compliant ASGM output. Separately, the market data shows gold and silver prices sharply higher, reinforcing a strong precious-metals backdrop.