Opening a Chinese restaurant in Morocco is a profitable and legally accessible opportunity for Chinese nationals. Morocco’s growing tourism, vibrant food culture, and increasing curiosity about Asian cuisine make it an ideal location to introduce authentic Chinese food. With the right licenses, partnerships, and planning, Chinese investors can fully own and operate a restaurant anywhere in Morocco.

Why Open a Chinese Restaurant in Morocco?

Moroccans and international visitors alike are increasingly seeking diverse culinary experiences, especially in major cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, Rabat, and Tangier. Chinese cuisine—rich in flavor, healthy, and unique—is gaining popularity.

Key reasons to invest:

Tourism boom: Morocco expects a surge of international visitors through 2030 (FIFA co-host).
Limited competition: Compared to other cuisines, authentic Chinese restaurants are still rare.
Growing middle class: More Moroccans are dining out, especially in urban centers.
Favorable investment environment: Foreigners can own 100% of their business, including food establishments.

Legal Requirements for Opening a Restaurant as a Chinese Citizen

2. No Restrictions on Restaurant Ownership in Morocco

Chinese nationals can own and operate a restaurant under a legal Moroccan entity. The most common structure is the SARL (Société à Responsabilité Limitée), which offers flexibility and low capital requirements.

Step-by-Step Guide: Opening a Chinese Restaurant in Morocco

Step 1: Define the Business Concept and Location

Decide whether it will be a dine-in restaurant, takeaway, or fusion-style bistro
Choose your city and secure a commercial lease (rental contract is required for registration)
Consider tourist zones, shopping malls, or office areas with high foot traffic

Step 2: Company Registration

Reserve the business name via OMPIC
Draft the Articles of Association (statuts) with a local legal advisor
Deposit the minimum capital (MAD 10,000 for SARL) in a Moroccan bank
Register the company at the Regional Investment Center (CRI)

You will receive:

RC (Company Registration Number)
ICE (Tax Identifier)
CNSS Affiliation (for staff social security)

Timeline: Around 10 working days

Step 3: Food Business Licensing and Compliance

To operate legally as a restaurant, you need:

Restaurant Operating License

Issued by the local municipality (commune). Required documents include:

Company registration documents
Lease or property title
Floor plan and sanitation layout
Fire safety compliance certificate

Sanitary Approval

From the ONSSA (National Food Safety Office) for kitchen facilities, equipment, and food handling procedures.

Fire & Safety Inspection

You must pass a fire department inspection, particularly for gas use, fire exits, and kitchen ventilation.

Step 4: Hire and Train Staff

Moroccan labor law allows you to:

Employ local staff (chefs, servers, cleaners) under standard CNSS contracts
Sponsor Chinese chefs or kitchen managers under work visa permits (subject to approval)

Tip: Staff uniforms, Mandarin-French bilingual menus, and open-kitchen formats help create an authentic experience.

Step 5: Restaurant Setup and Marketing

Source authentic ingredients—you may import sauces, noodles, or kitchenware under your own import license
Invest in a professional kitchen setup with wok burners and industrial extractors
Launch with:
- A Google Business Profile
- Listings on TripAdvisor, TheFork, and local delivery apps (e.g., Glovo)
- Social media marketing on Instagram and Facebook

Estimated Startup Costs (in MAD)

Expense Item	Cost Range (MAD)
Kitchen equipment	80,000 – 150,000
Furniture & interior decor	50,000 – 100,000
Initial food stock	15,000 – 30,000
Licenses and inspections	5,000 – 10,000
Staff salaries (first 2 mo)	20,000 – 40,000

Total Estimated Investment: 180,000 – 350,000 MAD
(Approx. $18,000 – $35,000 USD)

FAQ: Opening a Chinese Restaurant in Morocco

1. Do I need a Moroccan partner to open a restaurant?

No. Chinese investors can fully own their restaurant business.

2. Can I import Chinese ingredients?

Yes. You need a customs registration number and an import license for food products. Work with a freight forwarder or customs agent.

3. Are Chinese chefs allowed to work in Morocco?

Yes, with proper work permits and residence cards. You must demonstrate their specialized skill and sponsor the visa.

4. Can I open in tourist zones like Marrakech Medina?

Yes, but additional heritage and zoning approvals may apply. Local consultants can help navigate these requirements.

5. How long does the full setup company take?

Typically 1 to 2 weeks,

Conclusion: Serve Authentic Chinese Cuisine in a Growing Market

Opening a Chinese restaurant in Morocco offers high demand, low competition, and a clear legal pathway. With proper planning, authentic food, and cultural presentation, Chinese entrepreneurs can build successful hospitality businesses in Morocco’s top cities.

👉 Need expert help opening your Chinese restaurant in Morocco?
Contact BH Adviser – We’ll assist you from business registration to licensing, hiring, and restaurant launch.