Frequently Asked Questions
Legal Framework for Investments in Mauritania
What are the main laws governing investment in Mauritania?
Law No. 2025-006 – Investment Code
Law No. 2008-011 – Mining Code
Law No. 2010-033 of July 20, 2010 – Hydrocarbons Code
Law No. 2017-006 of February 1, 2017 – Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Law
Ordinance No. 83-127 of June 5, 1983 – Land and Property Code
Law No. 2004-017 of July 6, 2004 – Labor Code
Law No. 2007-047 of September 3, 2007 – Customs Code
Law No. 2013-001 – Nouadhibou Free Zone Law
Law No. 2015-031 – Competition and Consumer Protection Law
Law No. 2000-05 – Commercial Companies Law
What legal framework governs investment in Mauritania?
Mauritania has a favorable legal and institutional framework for investment, primarily defined by Law No. 2025-006 – Investment Code. This framework aims to promote economic growth, diversification of activities, and the attraction of capital, particularly foreign investment.
Which sectors are eligible under the Investment Code?
The Code applies to all legally established investments in the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, except for the following sectors:
Purchase of goods or real estate for resale as-is
Activities governed by banking regulations, including leasing
Activities governed by insurance and reinsurance regulations
Activities covered by legislation on mining, hydrocarbons, and green hydrogen
What incentive regimes are provided under the Investment Code?
Eligible investments may benefit from one of the preferential regimes:
The Basic Incentive Regime
The Development Poles Regime
The Structuring Investments Regime
These regimes are granted based on specific criteria outlined in the Investment Code.
What guarantees are provided under the Investment Code?
The Code provides the following guarantees:
Protection of property rights
Availability of foreign currency
Free transfer of capital and income
Free transfer of salaries
Access to raw materials
Access to land
Equal treatment and rights for investors
Full economic and competitive freedom
Right to employ expatriate personnel
What rights are guaranteed to foreign investors in Mauritania?
Foreign investors enjoy the same rights as nationals, including freedom to invest, protection against arbitrary expropriation, and the right to repatriate capital and profits in accordance with current regulations.
Is profit repatriation allowed?
Yes, foreign investors can repatriate their profits after payment of applicable taxes, subject to foreign exchange and banking regulations in Mauritania.
Promising Sectors for Investment
Which sectors are considered priorities for investment in Mauritania?
Priority sectors include agriculture, fisheries, livestock, mining, renewable energy, tourism, infrastructure, and services.
What investment opportunities does the fisheries sector offer?
The fisheries sector is rich in marine resources and offers potential in industrial fishing, seafood processing, and export.
Is the agricultural sector open to foreign investors?
Yes, agriculture is open to foreign investors, particularly in production, irrigation, and agro-industry.
Is tourism in Mauritania a growing sector?
Yes, tourism is developing, with strong potential in cultural tourism, desert tourism, and eco-tourism.
Taxation and Incentives
What tax advantages are provided under the Investment Code?
Exemptions from income tax, reduced property taxes, and exemptions on certain customs duties.
Are there VAT or customs duty exemptions?
Yes, for certain equipment and raw materials related to investment projects.
How long do the tax incentives last?
Incentives can last between 5 and 10 years, depending on the nature and location of the project.
Do special economic zones offer additional incentives?
Yes, they provide enhanced tax and customs exemptions to encourage investment.
How can an investor benefit from the preferential tax regime?
By submitting an investment application to APIM and obtaining official approval.
Procedures and Support
What are the steps to create a company in Mauritania?
Choose the legal structure, file the statutes, register with the commercial registry, obtain a NINE (business ID number), and open a bank account.
How long does it take to get investment approval?
Approximately 15 days with a complete application.
Can APIM help with land or facility acquisition?
Yes, APIM facilitates access to economic zones and infrastructure.
Do special economic zones offer additional incentives?
Yes, they provide enhanced tax and customs exemptions to encourage investment.
Does APIM support investors after setup?
Yes, APIM offers post-establishment follow-up and administrative support.
What documents are required to submit a project to APIM?
Business plan, application form, company statutes, ID document, and proof of funds.