Business setup guide
How To Start A Business in Gabon
Explore the key steps, procedures, and practical requirements for starting a business in Gabon with a country-specific guide built for local founders and foreign investors.
Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Business in Gabon (For Locals & Foreigners)
1. Choose the Legal Structure of the Business
Decide on the type of business entity (e.g., Sole Proprietorship, SARL, SA) that best suits your needs. Foreign investors usually go for Limited Liability Companies (SARL) or Public Limited Companies (SA).
Agency: Direction Générale des Impôts (DGI)
2. Reserve a Business Name
Apply for a business name reservation at the Guichet Unique or the Commercial Court Registry.
Fee: Approx. XAF 10,000
Time: 1–2 business days
Agency: Guichet Unique de Formalisation des Entreprises (GUFE)
3. Draft and Notarize Company Statutes
Draft the articles of association and have them notarized by a public notary.
Fee: Depends on capital; approx. XAF 100,000+
Time: 2–3 business days
4. Open a Bank Account and Deposit Capital
Open a corporate bank account and deposit the minimum required capital (e.g., XAF 1 million for SARL).
Agency: Any licensed commercial bank
5. Register the Company with GUFE
Submit all required documents to the GUFE for company registration and receive the RCCM (Registre du Commerce et du Crédit Mobilier) number.
Fee: Approx. XAF 150,000
Time: 5–7 business days
Agency: GUFE
6. Register for Taxes and Obtain Tax Identification Number (NIF)
Register the company with the tax authorities and obtain a NIF (Numéro d’Identification Fiscale).
Agency: Direction Générale des Impôts (DGI)
Time: 1–2 business days
7. Register with the National Social Security Fund (CNSS)
Register employees and the company with CNSS for social security coverage.
Agency: Caisse Nationale de Sécurité Sociale (CNSS)
Time: 1–2 business days
8. Obtain Sectoral Licenses or Authorizations (If Required)
Depending on the business activity, you may need special licenses (e.g., health, construction, transport, etc.).
Time: Varies by sector
Useful Resources
Disclaimer: The information provided above is for general guidance only. Procedures, fees, and timelines may vary depending on the type of business and updates in regulations. Always consult the relevant government agencies or a legal advisor for the most accurate and up-to-date information.