Business entities in Mauritania in 2023

Healy Consultants will assist our Clients with incorporating the optimal corporate structure in Mauritania. There are several ways of doing business in Mauritania, the most common being the setting up of a limited liability company. Foreign entrepreneurs may also opt to set up a public limited company or a branch office.

The Mauritania limited liability company (SARL)

• The Mauritania limited liability company (LLC, locally known as SARL) must appoint at least 1 director and 1 shareholder who can be of any nationality. The minimum paid-up share capital required to complete the incorporation process is US$3,500;
• Mauritania LLCs are required to appoint a statutory auditor and to submit annual audited financial statements.

The Mauritania public limited company (Société anonyme – SA)

• This Mauritania business setup is locally referred to as the SA. This entity requires a minimum capital of US$17,000 for incorporation. At least 1 shareholder and 1 director must be appointed, who can be of any nationality;
• Similar to the LLCs, the Mauritania PLC’s books of accounts must be maintained in French at its registered office in Mauritania. Annual financial statements must be prepared and an audit must be submitted every year. A Mauritania PLC must also appoint an approved auditor.

The Mauritania branch (Succursale)

This Mauritania business setup is deemed as a part of the parent company; as a result, the scope of operations for this entity will be defined by the parent company. Also, the branch office must have a registered office in Mauritania as well as a resident agent appointed by the company to receive summons, notices etc. on behalf of the company.

Table of comparison between Mauritania entities