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Practice Area
Mining Law
Expert legal advice to ensure compliance, secure permits, and maximize opportunities in the mining industry of Uganda.
Overview
We are the leading firm in Uganda specializing in legal services for the mining industry. We provide expert guidance to clients, helping them navigate regulatory frameworks and capitalize on opportunities in this dynamic sector. Our services include compliance advisory, securing essential permits, contract negotiation and risk management. By staying updated on Uganda's evolving legal landscapes, we ensure that our clients avoid penalties, delays and operational setbacks while meeting all legal requirements.
In addition to compliance, we support our clients with contract structuring for joint ventures and supplier agreements. We also specialize in dispute resolution, offering legal representation through arbitration, mediation and litigation. Skilled in land use conflicts and compensation claims, we ensure favorable outcomes. Our expertise extends to environmental compliance and fostering sustainable mining practices, including community benefit sharing initiatives. Furthermore, we provide detailed due diligence and risk analysis for investors.
Our Services
Compliance advisory for mining regulations
Securing mining permits and licenses
Contract negotiation and risk management
Joint venture and supplier agreement structuring
Dispute resolution (arbitration, mediation, litigation)
Land use conflict and compensation claims
Environmental compliance and sustainability
Due diligence and risk analysis for investors
Gold Purchase Procedure
We guide clients through the gold purchase procedure as established by Uganda's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD) under the Minerals Development Program — from registration to export.
Step 1: MCRS Portal Registration
All stakeholders must first register with the Mining Cadaster and Registry System (MCRS), Uganda's e-government portal for direct engagement with the Mineral Development Program.
For Individuals:
- Completed Registration Form (downloadable from MCRS portal)
- Personal Identity — Passport or National ID
- Tax Identification Number (TIN)
For Companies:
- Completed Registration Form
- Personal Identity — Passport (foreigner) or National ID
- Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- Certified Certificate of Incorporation
- Certified Memorandum & Articles of Association
- Board Resolution authorizing the applicant
Step 2: Mineral Dealer's License (MDL)
Apply for a Mineral Dealer's License (MDL). Applications are submitted online through the MCRS portal. Note that MDLs expire on 31st December of the year of issuance.
Requirements:
- Completed MDL Application Form
- Proof of financial resources
- ID showing nationality (if individual)
- Proposed plan for marketing, buying, and selling minerals
- Tax Clearance Certificate issued by URA to MEMD
- Proof of technical competence (CVs of key staff)
Step 3: Buying Gold
Once licensed, we assist clients in conducting proper gold purchases with all necessary verification and record-keeping.
Essential Checks:
- Verify seller holds a valid and relevant license
- Verify authenticity of the gold — purity and source
- Obtain proof of purchase for compliance records
Step 4: Exporting Gold
Export permits are granted per consignment. We handle all documentation to ensure a smooth, compliant export process.
Requirements:
- Valid MDL, Mineral Right (Mining License), or Refining License
- Completed Form 52 — Mining & Minerals (Licensing) Regulations 2023
- Export permit from country of origin (for non-Ugandan minerals)
- Certificate of Origin (where applicable)
- Certificate of Analysis authenticated by country of origin
- Proof gold is refined to 99.9% purity
- Proof of payment of fees (USD 200) through URA
Step 5: Importing Gold
Import permits are also granted per consignment. We ensure all importing activities meet MEMD requirements.
Requirements:
- Valid MDL for the relevant mineral group
- Completed Form 54 — Mining & Minerals (Licensing) Regulations 2023
- Export permit from the country of origin
- Proof of royalty payment from country of origin
- Certificate of Origin (where applicable)
- Certificate of Analysis authenticated by country of origin
Our Fee Structure
Clear, phased fee structure for gold trade transaction guidance
Phase One
| Item | Particulars | Amount USD |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Provision of a detailed procedures and processes necessary for a successful Gold trade transaction in Uganda | 1,087 |
| 2 | Provision of different levels of possible entry points into the industry from mining to trading | 815.25 |
Phase Two
| Item | Particulars | Amount USD |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Identification of potential counter partners / reliable counter parties from mining, smelting, trading, insurance, freight, security and custody. | 1,358.75 |
| 2 | Performance of due diligence on counter parties i.e. legality, tax compliance, mineral Licenses validity and experience in the industry, criminal background on the directors from Interpol USD 820 per party | 1,087 |
Phase Three
Phase Three fees are provided upon request based on specific client requirements and transaction complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Need Legal Help?
Schedule a consultation with our expert attorneys today.
Book Consultation+256 785 390 207
info@mercio.org
Plot 10 Luwum St, California Plaza - Kampala