How to Register a Sole Proprietorship in Mauritania

Mauritania is a country in Northwest Africa. Most of the country’s territory is in the Sahara desert, so most inhabitants live in the southern part. The capital city is Nouakchott, located on the Atlantic shore. Arabic is the official language, and French is widely spoken. The currency used is Mauritanian ouguiya (MRU).

Mauritania has a good business climate and is full of opportunities to be seized whether on the local market as well as internationally.

If you’re looking to start a business in Mauritania, this article will guide you and give you a good overview of the registration procedure in this African country.

What is a sole proprietorship- Entreprise Individuelle

An individual operating a commercial business in their own name and at their own responsibility is considered a sole proprietor. The owner is liable with all of their personal assets, and the liability is not limited.

There is no legal personality separated from a natural person. This business form is often chosen for small businesses because of its simple form and easy registration procedure.

The business is also flexible and adaptable to its changing environment, and the decisions and changes can be made fast. In some countries, this business entity is called a sole trader.

Registration process

The business registration in Mauritania is done through a one-stop-shop Single Window (Guichet Unique), which is attached to the Ministry of Economy and Finances. It contains all the formalities required through a single form.

To register a business, you need to submit the application form to the one-stop-shop reception desk. The office address is Ilot B 71 E-Nord Tevragh Zeina Nouakchott. The application form will, among other information, include:

• Business name
• Name of the owner
• Legal form of a business
• The amount of capital
• The date of extinction

Your request should be accompanied by certified copies of the personal identification documents (ID card, passport, etc.).

The registration fee should be paid to the representative of the Public Treasury present at the office.

Your request will be processed and, if everything is in order, you will receive a registration certificate within 48 hours.

Now that you have your certificate, you need to register your business for tax purposes.

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Taxes for sole proprietors in Mauritania

The authority in charge of taxation is the Ministry of Finance, General Management of Taxes. The tax registration is done at the Ministry office, located in Nouakchott. Make sure you bring your certificate and identification documents.

The personal income tax in Mauritania is calculated at the following progressive rates:

• From MRU 6,000 to 9,000 - 15%
• Between MRU 9,000 and 21,000 - 25%
• Exceeding MRU 21,000 - 40%

Residents are taxable on their worldwide income. If there is a foreign income taxed in another country, it will not be taxed in Mauritania. Non-residents are taxed on their income gained in Mauritania.

Most economic activities are taxed at a 16% VAT rate.