Barrick, Mali Unions Avert Planned Mine Strike

Barrick Mining reached agreements with unions representing workers at its Loulo-Gounkoto gold complex in Mali and its on-site services contractor, averting planned walkouts over overtime, expense reimbursements and other labor demands. The resolution removes an immediate risk of disruption at a major gold-producing operation that resumed production after a settlement with Mali returned control to Barrick. However, the labor deal does not resolve broader uncertainty for the company: relations with Mali’s government remain sensitive following a 2023 mining code that increased the state’s share of mining revenues and a prolonged dispute over control and payments.