Argentina opens alternative customs route for qualifying processed mineral exports

The resolution replaces the final paragraph of Article 1 of General Resolution 5626/2024. The ordinary route still directs the specified mineral exports to customs offices in the jurisdiction where the deposit is located. The new exception applies where extracted material has undergone smelting and refining at an establishment in another customs jurisdiction.^[1][2]

The affected categories include Chapter 26 ores and concentrates, excluding uranium and thorium, and specified unworked silver and gold products. The amendment refers to Article 1(a), (c), (d), (e) and (f). It does not extend the exception indiscriminately to every category in the wider regime, including paragraph (b)’s scrap and electronic-waste categories.^[2]

Exporters using the alternative route must preserve the sampling controls under General Resolution 3294 or its successor and demonstrate acquisition and origin in accordance with Customs Directorate requirements. ARCA’s explanation confirms that minerals not undergoing the relevant processing remain tied to the mine-location route. Processing flexibility does not remove traceability controls.^[1][3]

For mining groups, the practical change is a conditional choice of customs office after processing in another jurisdiction. It is not a reduced duty rate or a new filing deadline. Exporters should confirm the actual goods, processing history and customs jurisdictions before relying on the exception; merely describing goods as processed minerals is insufficient.^[1][2][3]