Montepuez Ruby Mining (MRM) was recognized as the largest taxpayer in Cabo Delgado Province in 2025, contributing $11.3 million in taxes, according to a statement released by the company.
According to the Mozambican Tax Authority, cited in the document, the taxes paid by MRM accounted for 24.70% of the province’s total tax revenue and 45.20% of the amount collected from major taxpayers, underscoring the mining company’s significance in the local tax structure.
“The award for largest taxpayer marks the eighth time MRM has been recognized by the Government of Mozambique as the leading taxpayer in Cabo Delgado,” the statement notes, emphasizing that the company had previously been recognized consecutively between 2014 and 2019, as well as in 2022.
Despite its fiscal performance, the company acknowledges that the fiscal year was marked by operational constraints. “This performance comes amid a challenging context, in which the company has seen a decline in ruby production and a reduction in revenue,” the statement reads, attributing this situation to the “continuing increase in illegal ruby smuggling activities by syndicates.”
MRM warns that illegal logging and trade do not benefit the province; rather, “they can be seen as a form of exploitation of local communities, weakening the social fabric and depriving the Mozambican state of essential tax revenue.”
The data also indicates a significant decline compared to the previous year. In 2024, the company had contributed $28.1 million, reflecting a drop of more than 50% in tax revenues remitted to the state.
Given this scenario, the mining company advocates for the need for “proactive measures to combat illegal mining and trade,” with a view to curbing the illicit outflow of rubies and protecting national revenues derived from mineral resources.
Operated 75% by Gemfields and 25% by Mwiriti Limited, MRM affirms its commitment to responsible mining practices. “The company strives to meet international standards for responsible mining, demonstrating transparency, accountability, and sustainability,” the statement notes.
The company adds that it will continue to work in coordination with the government and local communities, aiming for “inclusive and sustainable economic growth.”
