Mauritius, a stunning island nation nestled in the Indian Ocean, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse culture, and burgeoning economy. Over the past few decades, this island paradise has transformed into a vibrant economic hub, attracting both foreign and local investors. This economic metamorphosis can be credited to its strategic geographical location, stable political environment, educated workforce, and investor-friendly policies.
Understanding the Business Climate in Mauritius
Mauritius offers a business-friendly environment, with the ease of starting and doing business being ranked 13th worldwide by the World Bank’s Doing Business 2020 report. The country boasts an open and flexible regulatory system which encourages entrepreneurship and business activity. Its strengths lie in its robust legal and regulatory framework, comparable to international standards, and its commitment to transparency and good governance.
Registering a Business Name in Mauritius
The cornerstone of starting any business in Mauritius is obtaining a unique and suitable business name. To accomplish this, one needs to register the business name with the Corporate and Business Registration Department (CBRD), a department within the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development.
Below are the necessary steps to register a business name in Mauritius.
Step 1: Business Name Approval and Reservation
Before registering a business name, it’s important to ensure that your selected name is unique and not already in use. A name search can be conducted on the CBRD website. Once the name is approved, it can be reserved for a period of 60 days, paying a prescribed fee.
Step 2: Preparation of Business Registration Documents
Post name reservation, the business owner should prepare the necessary documents for the business registration. This includes business details, such as the nature of the business, registered office address, owner details, etc. Additionally, any specific licenses or permits required for your line of business should be obtained.
Step 3: Registration of Business Name
With all documents complete and in order, the owner can proceed to submit these to the CBRD, accompanied by the required registration fee. Registration can be completed both online and offline.
Step 4: Receive Business Registration Card
Once the CBRD reviews and approves your application, a Business Registration Card will be issued. This card serves as proof that your business name has been successfully registered in Mauritius.
It’s essential to remember that registering a business name does not confer ownership. It merely confirms that the name is not being used by any other entity in Mauritius. Also, the registered business name should be displayed at every location where the business is carried out.
Conclusion
Setting up a business in Mauritius is a relatively straightforward process. The government’s efforts to streamline business registration procedures reassure investors, and the professionalism of the administrative body makes the landscape conducive for both local and international businesses. Consequently, registering a business name in Mauritius is your first step to being part of this dynamic and thriving business environment.
Here are some suggested related links about registering a business name in Mauritius:
Government of Mauritius – Companies Division
Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI)
Mauritius Network Services (MNS)