FAQ's
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FAQ's
Can foreigners export minerals from Tanzania?
Yes. Foreigners can invest in and export minerals from Tanzania, but must register a local company, acquire all required licenses, and comply with Tanzanian laws and local content policies.
What taxes or royalties apply to mineral exports?
Mineral exports are subject to:
Royalty payments (e.g., 6% for gold)
Export levies (especially for raw minerals)
Withholding taxes
Clearing and inspection fees
All charges are governed by the Mining Act and must be paid before export clearance.
What does the Tanzania Mining Commission do?
The Tanzania Mining Commission oversees mineral licensing, regulates trade, enforces compliance, and ensures local processing requirements are met. It also operates assay laboratories for mineral quality testing.
Which minerals are commonly exported from Tanzania?
Tanzanite, Ruby, Sapphire, Spinel, Rhodolite Garnet, Grossular Garnet, Green Garnet, Sunstone, Quartz
Where are minerals processed in Tanzania?
Tanzania has several government-designated mineral processing zones and trading hubs in regions such as: Arusha, Geita, Mwanza, Dar es Salaam. These facilities offer services such as smelting, cutting, grading, and assay certification
Is it legal to export minerals from Tanzania?
Yes, exporting minerals from Tanzania is legal when done in accordance with regulations from the Ministry of Minerals and the Tanzania Mining Commission. Exporters must obtain all necessary permits and follow value addition requirements for certain minerals.
What is mineral processing?
Mineral processing is the process of extracting and refining valuable minerals from raw ore. In Tanzania, this includes activities such as crushing, grinding, smelting, and refining of minerals like gold, copper, and gemstones prior to export.
Where can I buy minerals in Tanzania as a visitor?
You can buy minerals at government-designated Mineral Trading Centers located in cities such as:
Arusha (Tanzanite hub)
Mwanza (Gold trading)
Geita
Dar es Salaam
Merelani Hills (near Kilimanjaro – Tanzanite source)
Do I need a license to buy minerals as a traveler?
No, travelers are not required to have a license to buy minerals for personal use or collection, but you must:
Buy from a licensed dealer
Obtain a Mineral Export Permit from the dealer
Ensure the purchase is recorded and approved by the relevant authorities
For bulk or commercial purchases, business registration and a dealer or broker license may be required.
Can I take minerals out of Tanzania in my luggage?
Yes, but only if:
You have a valid Export Permit
The minerals are accompanied by a receipt and documentation from a licensed dealer
The purchase is declared at customs during departure
You cannot carry unlicensed or unregistered stones/minerals through the airport.
How do I know the minerals or gemstones are authentic?
Buy only from government-registered dealers who issue:
Official purchase receipts
Government assay certificates
Export documentation
You may also request a gemological lab certificate for high-value stones like Tanzanite.
What taxes or fees apply when buying minerals in Tanzania?
When buying minerals, the price usually includes:
Royalty fee (e.g., 6% for gold)
Clearance/Export levy
Assay or grading fee
These are typically handled by the dealer, but ensure they are included in your final invoice.
Can I visit mining sites as a buyer?
Yes, many mineral buyers visit mining areas such as Merelani (Tanzanite) or Geita (Gold). However, entry into active mining zones usually requires:
Advance permission
Escort by a licensed local dealer or mining company
Compliance with safety regulations
How long does the export process take?
If all documentation is in order, the export process can take 1–3 working days for small quantities purchased at a licensed trading center. For large or commercial exports, it may take longer due to inspection and valuation procedures.
What currencies are accepted when buying minerals?
Most dealers accept US Dollars, Euros, and Tanzanian Shillings (TZS). Larger transactions may require wire transfers or bank payments. Always ask for official receipts and records.
What currencies are accepted when buying minerals?
Most dealers accept US Dollars, Euros, and Tanzanian Shillings (TZS). Larger transactions may require wire transfers or bank payments. Always ask for official receipts and records.