How to Open a Business in Morocco as a Swiss Investor

Opening a business in Morocco as a Swiss investor is straightforward when you understand the legal steps, tax benefits, and government support available. Thanks to Morocco’s strategic location, pro-investment laws, and bilateral agreements with Switzerland, Swiss entrepreneurs can register a company, repatriate profits, and benefit from tax exemptions during initial years while tapping into fast-growing sectors like renewable energy, tourism, automotive, and e-commerce.

Why Morocco Appeals to Swiss Investors

• Strategic Gateway: Morocco offers access to European, African, and U.S. markets through free trade agreements.
• Political and Economic Stability: The economy is projected to grow by 3.7% in 2024 and continues to attract foreign capital.
• Tax Incentives: New investors often enjoy corporate tax reductions (as low as 15%) and profit repatriation rights.
• Growing Sectors: Renewable energy, agribusiness, tourism, and e-commerce are booming.
• Ease of Operation: Morocco has simplified company registration via Regional Investment Centers and One-Stop Shops.

Steps to Open a Business in Morocco as a Swiss Investor

Choose Your Business Structure

Most Swiss investors in Morocco choose either a Limited Liability Company (SARL) or a Joint Stock Company (SA).

• SARL (Société à Responsabilité Limitée) requires only two shareholders and is the simplest structure for small and medium-sized ventures.
• SA (Société Anonyme) is recommended for larger projects or companies seeking public investment.

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Obtain a Negative Certificate (Certificat Négatif)

This certificate confirms your business name is available and can be obtained online via the OMPIC platform.

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Draft and Notarize Incorporation Documents

You’ll need to prepare and notarize:

• Articles of Association
• Investment declaration
• Apostilled Swiss corporate documents (for branches or subsidiaries)

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Deposit Share Capital in a Moroccan Bank

• For a SARL, the minimum share capital is typically 10,000 MAD (~1,000 CHF).
• Funds can be easily transferred from Switzerland.

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Register the Company

You must register with:

• Commercial Register (Registre de Commerce)
• Tax Authorities
• CNSS (Social Security) to employ staff legally.

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Obtain Required Permits

Sectors like tourism, energy, or industrial production may require additional licenses or authorizations.

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Leverage Tax Benefits

• Many companies benefit from 5-year tax holidays in free zones or specific industries.
• The Switzerland–Morocco Double Tax Treaty ensures no double taxation and allows profit repatriation.

Top Investment Sectors for Swiss Entrepreneurs

• Renewable Energy (solar, wind, and green hydrogen)
• Tourism & Hospitality (luxury and eco-tourism)
• Automotive & Aerospace Manufacturing
• Agribusiness (organic food exports)
• E-commerce and Digital Platforms

These sectors enjoy government subsidies, tax incentives, and rapid growth opportunities.

FAQs

1. Can Swiss investors fully own a Moroccan company?

Yes. Foreigners can own 100% of most businesses, except in sectors like agriculture and fishing which have some restrictions.

2. How long does company registration take?

Typically 7 days if all documents are prepared and apostilled correctly.

3. Are there tax benefits for Swiss investors?

Yes. You may benefit from tax holidays, reduced corporate rates (15%), and full profit repatriation, thanks to bilateral treaties.

4. Is Morocco safe for Swiss investors?

Absolutely. Morocco offers political stability, investor protections, and international arbitration options.

5. Where can I get assistance?

The Regional Investment Centers (CRI) and agencies like the Moroccan Agency for Development provide support, or you can work with private consultants for end-to-end setup.