The UAE Ministry of Finance has revoked Ministerial Decision (MD) No. 265 of 2023 and issued two replacements. MD No. 229 of 2025 defines the scope of Qualifying and Excluded Activities for Corporate Tax in free zones, while MD No. 230 of 2025 specifies recognised Price Reporting Agencies.
MD 229 removes the “in raw form” restriction and now allows Qualifying Commodity Trading in metals, minerals, industrial chemicals, energy and agricultural products, including associated by-products—provided these commodities have a Quoted Price from recognised market sources.
MD 230 offers clarity by listing which Price Reporting Agencies are accepted for the valuation of these commodities.
The Ministry stated that the updates reflect the role of free zones in supporting the UAE’s economic diversification, aligning regulatory frameworks with international tax norms, and sustaining a business-friendly environment.
