Story perspectives

Venezuela's Gold Trade: Crime, Partnerships, and Environmental Risks

12/22/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Venezuelan government has formed partnerships with Turkey and South Africa for gold trading.
The government is engaging with criminal groups to boost production.
Officials project 79 tons of gold production by 2025, but production is smuggled and only 14% reaches the treasury.
The Orinoco Mining Arc has devolved into a site of crime and environmental degradation.
U.S. President Donald Trump has emphasized reclaiming Venezuelan oil rights, complicating the geopolitical landscape.

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Story summary

The Venezuelan government has formed partnerships with Turkey and South Africa for gold trading.
The government is engaging with criminal groups to boost production.
Officials project 79 tons of gold production by 2025, but production is smuggled and only 14% reaches the treasury.
The Orinoco Mining Arc has devolved into a site of crime and environmental degradation.
U.S. President Donald Trump has emphasized reclaiming Venezuelan oil rights, complicating the geopolitical landscape.