How To Start A Business in Ivory Coast
Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Business in Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire)
1. Reserve and Register the Business Name
Business name reservation and incorporation can be done through the Centre de Formalités des Entreprises (CFE) under the Ministry of Commerce.
- Fee: XOF 15,000–30,000
- Duration: 1–2 working days
2. Draft and Notarize the Articles of Association
Have your statutes notarized by a notary public. This is mandatory for legal entities such as SARL and SA.
- Fee: Depends on capital amount (e.g., ~XOF 100,000 for small businesses)
- Duration: 1–2 working days
3. Register with the Trade and Personal Property Credit Register (RCCM)
Submit the notarized documents and application to the Tribunal de Commerce to obtain an RCCM number.
- Fee: XOF 35,000–50,000
- Duration: 1–2 working days
4. Obtain the Tax Identification Number (NIF)
Register your company with the Direction Générale des Impôts (DGI) to obtain the NIF.
- Fee: Free
- Duration: 1–3 working days
5. Register for Social Security
Businesses must register with the Caisse Nationale de Prévoyance Sociale (CNPS) for employee social security coverage.
- Employer Contribution: ~12% of gross salary
- Employee Contribution: ~6.3%
6. Open a Business Bank Account
Use your RCCM number and tax registration to open a business bank account. Minimum capital deposit is required depending on entity type.
- Minimum Capital: SARL: XOF 1,000,000; SA: XOF 10,000,000
7. Obtain Sector-Specific Licenses (if applicable)
For businesses in regulated sectors (such as healthcare, education, mining), secure the necessary permits from the relevant ministry or regulator.
- Fee: Varies by sector
- Duration: Depends on sector
8. Register with CEPICI (Foreign Investors)
Foreign investors should register with the Centre de Promotion des Investissements en Côte d'Ivoire (CEPICI), which offers a one-stop shop for investors.
- Minimum Capital for Foreign Companies: Typically higher (varies by sector)
- Incentives: Tax exemptions, customs benefits, investment protections
Useful Resources
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and may not reflect recent regulatory changes. Investors are advised to consult legal professionals or directly contact the relevant Ivorian authorities for accurate and up-to-date guidance.