How To Start A Business in Mali

How to Start a Business in Mali - Step by Step Procedures

Starting a business in Mali involves following several legal and regulatory steps. Below is a detailed guide for both local and foreign investors to successfully establish their businesses.

Step-by-Step Guide for Malian Nationals

1. Business Idea and Feasibility Study: First, identify your business idea, conduct a market analysis, and determine if your business will meet a specific need in the market.
2. Choose a Business Structure: Select a business structure suitable for your needs, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited liability company (LLC).
3. Register the Business Name: Register your business name with the Mali Business Registration Office (Centre de Formalités des Entreprises - CFE).
   Centre de Formalités des Entreprises (CFE)
4. Register with the Tax Authorities: Obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) from the Mali Tax Directorate (Direction Générale des Impôts - DGI).
   Estimated Fee: Free of charge
   Direction Générale des Impôts (DGI)
5. Obtain Business Licenses and Permits: Depending on the type of business, you may need to apply for specific licenses or permits from the relevant local authorities or the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
   Estimated Fee: Varies based on business type
6. Open a Business Bank Account: Open a bank account in your business's name to facilitate financial operations.

Step-by-Step Guide for Foreign Investors

1. Obtain Investment Approval: Foreign investors must submit an application for investment approval to the Mali Investment Promotion Agency (Agence pour la Promotion des Investissements au Mali - API).
   Agence pour la Promotion des Investissements au Mali (API)
2. Choose a Business Structure: Foreign investors should choose a business structure, including a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Joint Stock Company (JSC), or a branch of a foreign company.
3. Obtain Investment Certificate: Apply for an investment certificate through the Mali Investment Promotion Agency (API), which confirms that your business qualifies for incentives under the country's investment code.
   Estimated Fee: Varies based on investment amount
4. Register the Business: Submit the required documents (investment certificate, company documents, and identification papers) to the Mali Business Registration Office (CFE).
5. Register for Taxation: Obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) from the Mali Tax Directorate (DGI).
6. Work and Residence Permits: Foreign investors and employees must apply for work and residence permits at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
   Estimated Fee: Varies

Estimated Duration

• For Locals: 1–2 weeks
• For Foreigners: 4–6 weeks (including investment approval and permits)

Useful Resources

• Centre de Formalités des Entreprises (CFE)
• Direction Générale des Impôts (DGI)
• Agence pour la Promotion des Investissements au Mali (API)
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Work and Residence Permits