Doing Business with Senegal

A comprehensive guide to doing business, exporting, investing, and manufacturing in Senegal.

Foreign Direct Investment with the International Trade Council / Company Incorporation / Company Formation

Agence nationale chargée de la Promotion de l’Investissement et des Grands Travaux

Tel: +221 33 849 05 55
Email: infos@apix.sn
Web: investinsenegal.sn

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General Directorate of Customs

Tel: +221 33 849 45 45
Email: infos@douanes.sn
Website: douanes.sn

National Chamber of Commerce

Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture of Dakar

Tel: +221 33 889 77 80
Email: cciad@orange.sn
Website: cciad.sn

Ministry of Economy Information from the International Trade Council - a Peak-body - international chamber of commerce

Ministry of Economy, Planning and Cooperation

Tel: +221 33 889 21 21
Email: mepc.sec@economie.sn
Website: economie.gouv.sn

  • Type of Government: Presidential republic
  • Population: Approximately 17 million
  • GDP: Around $27 billion USD
  • Corporate Tax Rate: 30%
  • Personal Income Tax Rate: Progressive, up to 40%
  • Major Exports: Fish, phosphates, groundnuts, petroleum products
  • Major Imports: Foodstuffs, capital goods, petroleum products

 

Exporting goods to Senegal involves several key steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

  1. Research Market Requirements

    • Understand Senegal’s import regulations and product standards.
  2. Identify Your Product’s HS Code

    • Determine the Harmonized System (HS) code for tariff and regulation details.
  3. Prepare Documentation

    • Gather necessary export documents: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.
  4. Check Tariff and Non-Tariff Barriers

    • Verify any tariffs and ensure compliance with non-tariff measures.
  5. Select a Reliable Freight Forwarder

    • Choose a logistics provider experienced in shipping to Senegal.
  6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Regulations

    • Ensure your products meet local labeling and packaging standards.
  7. Arrange for Insurance

    • Secure insurance to cover potential shipping risks.
  8. Submit Customs Declaration

    • Work with your freight forwarder to submit the necessary customs declaration.
  9. Track and Confirm Delivery

    • Monitor the shipment to ensure it reaches the destination safely.

Key Contacts

  • Senegalese Customs
  • Agency for the Promotion of Investment and Major Works (APIX)

Importing goods into Senegal involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Research Import Regulations

    • Familiarize yourself with Senegal’s import laws and product-specific regulations.
  2. Obtain Necessary Licenses

    • Determine if your products require special import licenses or permits.
  3. Classify Your Goods

    • Identify the Harmonized System (HS) code for your products to understand tariffs and duties.
  4. Prepare Documentation

    • Gather required documents: commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, and certificate of origin.
  5. Choose a Customs Broker

    • Hire a licensed customs broker to assist with the import process.
  6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Standards

    • Ensure products meet local labeling and packaging requirements.
  7. Submit Customs Declaration

    • File a customs declaration with Senegalese Customs.
  8. Pay Duties and Taxes

    • Calculate and pay any applicable import duties and taxes.
  9. Arrange for Transportation and Delivery

    • Coordinate with a logistics provider to transport goods to their final destination.

Key Contacts

  • Senegalese Customs
  • Agency for the Promotion of Investment and Major Works (APIX)

Incorporating a company in Senegal involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Choose a Business Structure

    • Decide on the type of company, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC).
  2. Register the Company Name

    • Reserve your company’s name with the Commercial Court.
  3. Prepare Articles of Association

    • Draft the Articles of Association and have them notarized.
  4. Open a Bank Account

    • Open a corporate bank account and deposit the initial capital.
  5. Submit Incorporation Documents

    • File the necessary documents with the Commercial Court.
  6. Obtain a Tax Identification Number

    • Register with the tax authorities to obtain a tax ID.
  7. Register with the Social Security Office

    • Enroll your company with the Social Security Office for employee benefits.
  8. Obtain Necessary Licenses

    • Apply for any required business licenses specific to your industry.

Costs

  • Registration Fee: Varies depending on the type and size of the company.
  • Notary Fees: Required for notarizing documents.

Key Contacts

  • Agency for the Promotion of Investment and Major Works (APIX)
  • Senegalese Ministry of Economy, Planning and Cooperation

Setting up a manufacturing plant in Senegal involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Conduct a Feasibility Study

    • Assess market demand, location suitability, and resource availability.
  2. Choose a Business Structure

    • Decide on the type of business entity, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC).
  3. Register the Company

    • Register your business with the Commercial Court to obtain a Commercial Registration.
  4. Secure Financing

    • Arrange funding through banks or investors.
  5. Select a Location

    • Choose an industrial area with access to necessary infrastructure and resources.
  6. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

    • Apply for industrial licenses and environmental permits.
  7. Design and Construct the Facility

    • Hire architects and contractors to design and build the plant according to regulations.
  8. Purchase and Install Equipment

    • Acquire machinery that meets safety and operational standards.
  9. Hire and Train Employees

    • Recruit skilled workers and provide necessary training.
  10. Set Up Supply Chain and Distribution

    • Establish relationships with suppliers and distributors.

Key Contacts

  • Agency for the Promotion of Investment and Major Works (APIX)
  • Senegalese Ministry of Industry and Mines

Registering a trademark in Senegal involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Conduct a Trademark Search

    • Ensure your trademark is unique by searching the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) database.
  2. Prepare Your Application

    • Gather necessary details, including the trademark design and the list of goods/services.
  3. Submit the Application

    • File your application with the OAPI, which covers Senegal.
  4. Pay the Application Fee

    • Pay the required fees for trademark registration. Check the OAPI website for current rates.
  5. Application Examination

    • OAPI will examine the application for compliance and potential conflicts.
  6. Publication for Opposition

    • If approved, the trademark is published for a period during which others can oppose it.
  7. Receive Registration Certificate

    • If no oppositions are filed, you receive the official trademark registration certificate.

Costs

  • Application Fee: Check the OAPI website for up-to-date pricing.

Key Contacts

  • African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI)

Resolving commercial disputes in Senegal involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Consult Legal Counsel

    • Engage a lawyer experienced in Senegalese commercial law for guidance.
  2. Attempt Negotiation

    • Try to resolve the dispute amicably through direct negotiation with the other party.
  3. Mediation

    • Consider mediation through a neutral third party to facilitate a resolution.
  4. Arbitration

    • Use arbitration for a binding resolution if both parties agree. The Arbitration and Mediation Center of Dakar can assist.
  5. Litigation

    • If other methods fail, file a lawsuit in the commercial courts. Prepare for a formal legal process.
  6. Enforcement of Judgments

    • Ensure the decision is enforced through the relevant authorities.

Costs

  • Legal Fees: Vary depending on the complexity and length of the dispute.
  • Court Fees: Required for litigation and depend on the case specifics.

Key Contacts

  • Ministry of Justice of Senegal
  • Arbitration and Mediation Center of Dakar

When considering business in Senegal, it’s important to understand various factors:

Social and Cultural Factors

  • Language: French is the official language; Wolof is widely spoken.
  • Business Etiquette: Building personal relationships is crucial. Greetings are important and often lengthy.

Political Factors

  • Government: Semi-presidential republic.
  • Stability: Generally stable political environment with a focus on economic growth.

Economic Factors

  • Currency: West African CFA Franc (XOF).
  • Key Industries: Agriculture, mining, petroleum, and services.

Foreign Exchange

  • Exchange Rate: The CFA Franc is pegged to the Euro, providing currency stability.

Rule of Law

  • Legal System: Based on French civil law; commercial disputes are handled in specialized courts.
  • Intellectual Property: Protected under the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI).

Infrastructure

  • Transport: Developing road and port infrastructure; expanding air connectivity.
  • Utilities: Ongoing improvements in electricity and water supply.

Key Contacts

  • Senegalese Ministry of Economy, Planning and Cooperation
  • Agency for the Promotion of Investment and Major Works (APIX)
  • African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI)

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Ask our Experts on Doing Business in/with Senegal

If you’re looking to do business or invest in Senegal, we can provide expert guidance, market insights, and valuable connections to help you navigate the local landscape. Contact us today to discover how we can assist in making your venture a success.