How To Start A Business in Sudan

How to Start a Business in Sudan - Step by Step Guide

Starting a business in Sudan involves several important steps for both local and foreign investors. Below is a detailed guide, which includes the necessary procedures, fees, taxes, and estimated processing times.

Step-by-Step Guide for Locals

1. Choose Your Business Structure: The common structures include Sole Proprietorship, Limited Liability Company (LLC), and Joint Ventures.
2. Register Your Business: Local businesses must register with the Sudanese Ministry of Trade and Industry and the Sudanese Business and Investment Commission (SBIC).
   Sudanese Business and Investment Commission (SBIC)
   Fees: Business registration costs between SSP 1,000 and SSP 5,000 (approximately USD 5 to USD 25).
3. Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN): After registration, obtain a TIN from the Sudanese Taxation Chamber.
   Sudanese Taxation Chamber
   Fees: Free.
4. Register for VAT: Businesses with an annual turnover exceeding SSP 500,000 need to register for VAT with the Sudanese Taxation Chamber.
   Fees: Free, but VAT returns are mandatory on a monthly basis.
5. Register with the Social Insurance Authority: If employing workers, you must register with the Social Insurance Authority.
   Social Insurance Authority
   Fees: Contributions are 17% of the employee’s salary (7% employer, 10% employee).
6. Open a Business Bank Account: After registration, open a business bank account with a local bank.
   Fees: Initial deposit fees range from SSP 1,000 to SSP 5,000 (approximately USD 5 to USD 25).
7. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses: Depending on the business type, additional permits or licenses may be required. For example, a food business may need a health permit from the Ministry of Health.
   Fees: Varies depending on the business type.

Step-by-Step Guide for Foreign Investors

1. Choose Your Business Structure: Foreign investors can set up a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a Joint Venture (JV) with a Sudanese partner.
2. Register Your Business: Foreign investors must register their business with the Sudanese Business and Investment Commission (SBIC).
   Sudanese Business and Investment Commission (SBIC)
   Fees: Business registration fees are between SSP 1,000 and SSP 5,000 (approximately USD 5 to USD 25).
3. Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN): After registration, foreign investors need to apply for a TIN with the Sudanese Taxation Chamber.
   Sudanese Taxation Chamber
   Fees: Free.
4. Register for VAT: Businesses with an annual turnover exceeding SSP 500,000 are required to register for VAT.
   Fees: Free, but monthly VAT returns are required.
5. Register with the Social Insurance Authority: Employers are required to register employees with the Social Insurance Authority.
   Social Insurance Authority
   Fees: Contributions are 17% of the employee’s salary (7% employer, 10% employee).
6. Obtain Work Permits and Visas (if necessary): Foreign investors wishing to work in Sudan must obtain appropriate work permits and visas.
   Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sudan
   Fees: Work visa application fee: SSP 5,000 (approximately USD 25).
7. Open a Business Bank Account: Foreign investors must open a business bank account in Sudan.
   Fees: Varies by bank, initial deposit fees generally range from SSP 1,000 to SSP 5,000 (approximately USD 5 to USD 25).
8. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses: Foreign businesses must apply for relevant business licenses and permits.
   Fees: Varies depending on the business activity.

Estimated Duration

• For Locals: 1-2 weeks
• For Foreign Investors: 2-4 weeks (including obtaining work permits and visas)

Useful Resources

• Sudanese Business and Investment Commission (SBIC)
• Sudanese Taxation Chamber
• Social Insurance Authority (SIA)
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sudan