Manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals

Under MD 229 of 2025, the manufacture of basic precious metals qualifies as 'Manufacturing of goods or materials'. Forensic auditors will scrutinize the 'substantial transformation' test to ensure the activity is not merely 'Trading of Commodities' (an Excluded Activity if conducted with non-Free Zone persons). High substance is required due to the necessity of specialized smelting/refining machinery and full-time technical staff.

Audit Red Flag

Reclassification of 'Manufacturing' as 'Trading' if the transformation process does not result in a new HS Code or significant value-add, particularly in gold/silver bullion.

Which UAE zones permit this activity?

Scout checks the current permission status for this activity across every UAE zone against your specific structure.