Uganda Gold Export Procedure: Step-by-Step Legal Guide

Uganda Gold Export Procedure: Exporting gold from Uganda offers lucrative opportunities for international buyers, investors, and traders, especially given the country’s growing role in the East African gold market.

With gold exports reaching $5.21 billion between November 2024 and October 2025, Uganda has become a key player in the global precious metals trade.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Uganda gold export procedure, tailored for international audiences looking to navigate the legal landscape safely and efficiently.a

Whether you’re a foreign investor partnering with local entities or a buyer seeking high-quality Ugandan gold, understanding these steps ensures compliance and minimizes risks.

Overview of Gold Exportation in Uganda

Uganda’s gold sector has seen exponential growth, with exports surpassing traditional agricultural commodities like coffee and tea.

The country serves as a hub for gold from the Great Lakes region, including domestically mined gold and imports from neighboring countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In 2025, gold accounted for over 37% of Uganda’s total export revenue, driven by artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) as well as emerging large-scale operations.

Compliance with export laws is paramount. Uganda’s mining industry is regulated under the Mining and Minerals Act, 2022, which emphasizes responsible sourcing, environmental protection, and anti-money laundering measures.

Both local companies and international buyers can participate, but foreigners typically need to form joint ventures or register a Ugandan subsidiary to export directly. Individuals are generally not permitted to export gold; operations must be through licensed entities.

This structured approach not only protects the environment and local communities but also aligns with international standards like the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Mineral Supply Chains. For international buyers, partnering with licensed Ugandan exporters ensures traceability and reduces exposure to illicit trade risks.

Is Gold Export Legal in Uganda?

Yes, gold export is fully legal in Uganda, provided it adheres to stringent government regulations. The process is overseen by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD) to prevent illegal mining, smuggling, and conflict minerals.

Exporters must demonstrate responsible sourcing, meaning gold should originate from licensed mines or refineries, with proof that it hasn’t funded armed groups.

Government oversight includes mandatory declarations and audits to combat issues like under-declaration or smuggling. Recent guidelines require gold to be refined to 99.9% purity before export, emphasizing value addition within Uganda.

For international buyers, this means verifying suppliers’ compliance with the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) certification scheme, which tracks gold from mine to market to ensure it’s conflict-free.

Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, including fines, license revocation, or imprisonment. However, with proper licensing, Uganda’s gold export sector offers a stable, transparent environment for global trade.

Authorities Involved in Gold Export in Uganda

Several government bodies collaborate to regulate the Uganda gold export procedure. Understanding their roles is crucial for international buyers to ensure smooth transactions.

Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD): The primary regulator, MEMD issues mining and dealer licenses through its Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines (DGSM). DGSM handles export permits and ensures mineral traceability.
Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines (DGSM): Under MEMD, DGSM approves Mineral Dealer’s Licenses (MDL), export permits, and assays. It’s the go-to for licensing applications.
Uganda Revenue Authority (URA): Manages customs declarations, tax payments, and export levies. URA collects the $200 per kg levy on refined gold and verifies tax compliance.
Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS): Certifies gold quality and purity, ensuring it meets international standards like ISO for export.
Bank of Uganda (BoU): Oversees foreign exchange transactions related to gold exports, ensuring payments align with anti-money laundering laws.

For international buyers, engaging with these authorities through a local agent or lawyer streamlines the process and avoids delays.

Requirements to Export Gold from Uganda

To participate in gold export, entities must meet specific prerequisites. These are designed to promote formalization and deter illicit activities.

Registered Company in Uganda: Exporters must be incorporated under the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB). Foreigners can own up to 100% of shares but often partner with locals for operational ease.
Valid Mining or Trading License: A Mineral Dealer’s License (MDL) from DGSM is essential for trading. For miners, a Mining License or Refining License is required.
Tax Identification Number (TIN): Issued by URA, this ensures tax compliance.
Environmental Compliance: An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) may be needed if sourcing involves mining.
Source Documentation: Proof of legal origin, such as certificates from the country of import if not Ugandan-mined.

International buyers should note that while direct export by foreigners is restricted, registering a Ugandan entity or using licensed intermediaries allows participation.

Documents Required for Uganda Gold Export

Documentation is the backbone of the Uganda gold export procedure. Incomplete paperwork can halt shipments. Here’s a key list:

Document	Issuing Authority	Purpose
Mineral Export Permit	DGSM	Authorizes export of specific quantities.
Assay Report/Certificate of Analysis	Approved lab (e.g., AGR)	Verifies purity (must be 99.9% for refined gold).
Certificate of Origin	DGSM or chamber of commerce	Proves gold’s source.
Commercial Invoice	Exporter	Details value, quantity, and buyer info.
Packing List	Exporter	Lists shipment contents.
Airway Bill/Bill of Lading	Shipping agent	Transport document.
Export Declaration Form	URA	Customs clearance.
Proof of Royalty Payment	From origin country (if imported)	Ensures no unpaid royalties.
Tax Clearance Certificate	URA	Confirms no outstanding taxes.

These documents must be submitted electronically via URA’s ASYCUDA system for pre-clearance. For international buyers, insisting on these from suppliers prevents fraud.

Step-by-Step Uganda Gold Export Procedure

Follow this procedural guide for seamless exports:

Register a Gold Trading Company in Uganda: Incorporate via URSB (takes 1-2 weeks). Obtain TIN from URA.
Obtain a Gold Trading/Export License: Apply for MDL from DGSM (fees: UGX 10 million for precious metals). Provide proof of competence and financials.
Source and Verify Gold Legally: Purchase from licensed miners or importers. Ensure ICGLR certification for conflict-free status.
Conduct Assay and Purity Testing: Test at DGSM-approved labs. Gold must be refined to 99.9%.
Apply for Mineral Export Permit: Submit Form 52 to DGSM with assay report and origin proof.
Declare Shipment to URA: File export declaration, pay $200/kg levy.
Pay Applicable Taxes and Fees: Settle levies via URA.
Arrange Secure Shipping: Use approved couriers like Brinks via Entebbe Airport.
Customs Clearance and Export: Final inspection at border/airport.

For international buyers, steps 1-3 often involve local partners.

Gold Assaying and Certification in Uganda

Assaying is mandatory to confirm gold’s purity and value. The fire assay method, involving fusion and cupellation, is standard. Approved labs include the African Gold Refinery (AGR) in Entebbe and government facilities.

Purity standards: Export gold must be at least 99.9% (24K equivalent), though lower purities like 22K may be allowed with special permits. Certification builds trust for international markets, where buyers demand LBMA-compliant standards.

The process takes 1-2 days and costs vary by lab (around $50-100 per sample). International buyers should request independent assays to verify.

Taxes, Royalties, and Fees on Gold Export

Taxes are subject to change, but current rates include:

Export Levy: $200 per kg on refined gold. No royalties on Ugandan-produced gold, but imported gold requires proof of origin royalties.
Withholding Tax: May apply on payments to non-residents (15%).
VAT: Generally exempt on gold exports, but confirm with URA.
Other Fees: Licensing (UGX 10-20 million), assay ($100), customs ($50-200).

Rates can fluctuate; consult URA for updates. For international buyers, these costs are typically borne by the exporter but factored into pricing.

Shipping Gold from Uganda

Secure logistics are vital. Most exports occur via Entebbe International Airport, Uganda’s main cargo hub. Approved services include Brinks, Malca-Amit, or local firms like Bullion Group.

Requirements: Full insurance (1-2% of value), secure packaging, and airway bills. Typical routes: To Dubai, Europe, or Asia via direct flights.

english.news.cn

International buyers should use escrow services for payments until shipment confirmation.

How Long Does the Uganda Gold Export Process Take?

Timelines vary:

Licensing: 2-4 weeks for MDL.
Assay: 1-2 days.
Export Permit: 3-5 days.
Customs Clearance: 1-3 days.
Shipping: 1-7 days depending on destination.

Overall, 4-8 weeks from sourcing to delivery. Delays can occur due to incomplete docs or holidays.

Common Challenges in Exporting Gold from Uganda

Exporters face hurdles like:

Documentation Delays: Incomplete submissions slow approvals.
Regulatory Compliance: Keeping up with purity rules and AML checks.
Market Price Fluctuations: Gold prices volatility affects profitability.
Logistics Constraints: Airport congestion or security issues.

To overcome: Hire experienced agents, use digital platforms like ASYCUDA, and diversify suppliers.

How to Avoid Gold Export Scams in Uganda

Scams are rampant, with fraudsters offering fake gold or disappearing with payments. Warning signs:

Unlicensed dealers or fake offices.
Requests for unofficial fees.
Unverified sources or rushed deals.

Avoid by: Verifying licenses on DGSM portal, using escrow, and conducting due diligence. International buyers: Work with reputable firms like Midas Africa Gold.

FAQs About Uganda Gold Export

Can foreigners export gold from Uganda?

Yes, through a registered Ugandan company or joint venture.

How much gold can be exported legally?

No fixed limit, but per permit quantities.

What purity is allowed for export?

99.9% for refined gold.

Is artisanal gold export legal?

Yes, if sourced from licensed ASM and refined.

Which authority issues gold export permits?

DGSM under MEMD.

Are there export taxes on gold?

$200/kg levy on refined gold.

How to verify a Ugandan gold exporter?

Check MDL on DGSM website.

Final Thoughts on Uganda Gold Export Procedure

Navigating the Uganda gold export procedure requires diligence, but it opens doors to a thriving market. Prioritize compliance, partner with licensed entities, and leverage international standards for success.

For international buyers, consulting firms like Gold Buyers Africa can simplify entry. Embrace transparency to build lasting trade relationships.