The recycling

Switzerland is a pioneer in the recycling of precious metals. The volume of gold produced through recycling represents 26% of the gold processed in Switzerland in 2019, amounting to 1’297 tonnes. This volume is continuously increasing and corresponds to the growing demand of industries concerned about their ESG performance.

Efficiency and durability

The recycling of precious metals requires advanced technological expertise which allows almost 100% of metals in waste to be recovered. Recycling is a quick and guaranteed way to refine all precious metals without altering their properties and performance. The ASFCMP encourages these practices which help preserve natural resources and contribute to the circular economy.

Waste containing precious metals is only accepted in Switzerland under the following conditions:

  • It must originate from a company that can provide the necessary permits and which fulfils the required conditions, in accordance with the law on the control of precious metals (LCMP) and the law on money laundering (LBA).

  • Goods of foreign origin are only accepted upon presentation of proof of legal importation into Switzerland (declaration of legal import into Switzerland).

  • Members of the Association are financial intermediaries according to the LBA and are regulated for their compliance with the same.

  • They comply with OECD,  the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) and Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) supply chain rules.

  • They comply with the commodities trading rules set by the State Secretariat of Economic Affairs (SECO) and the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

Efficiency and durability

The recycling of precious metals requires advanced technological expertise which allows almost 100% of metals in waste to be recovered. Recycling is a quick and guaranteed way to refine all precious metals at a lower cost without altering their properties and performance. The ASFCMP encourages these practices which help preserve natural resources and develop the circular economy.