**[Global Diplomatic Pressure on Ghana to Halt Increase in Gold Royalties]** According to a report by Reuters, cited by Golden Finance, three informed sources and an industry association letter reveal that the U.S. and other Western governments have launched a rare coordinated effort to urge Ghana to stop raising gold royalties. They argue that this move could harm the interests of some of the world's largest mining companies. As Africa's largest gold producer, Ghana plans to change the current fixed tax rate of 5% to a tiered rate ranging from 5% to 12%, linked to gold prices. This measure aims to generate more fiscal revenue from the surge in gold prices, which have repeatedly hit record highs. Mining companies have stated that unless the new system is amended or revoked, it could take effect as early as next week. The highest tax rate under the new system would make Ghana one of the most expensive regions for mining on the African continent and could squeeze profit margins.