Chinese nationals can open an import and export company in Morocco through a straightforward legal process that welcomes foreign investment, especially in trade sectors. By securing the necessary documents in China and Morocco, Chinese entrepreneurs can take advantage of Morocco’s free trade agreements, world-class logistics, and strategic location between Africa, Europe, and the United States.

Why Choose Morocco for Import & Export Business as a Chinese Investor

Morocco has become a regional hub for international trade due to:

Its free trade agreements with the EU, USA, China, and African countries
Access to over 1 billion consumers with preferential or zero tariffs
The Tanger Med Port, one of the top 25 ports in the world, ideal for shipping Chinese goods to Europe or Africa
Stable political environment and an investment charter that supports trade activities

For Chinese exporters and importers, Morocco offers:

Lower logistics costs for exports to Europe and West Africa
No customs duties on several products under Morocco-China cooperation
Trade-friendly Special Economic Zones (SEZs)

Legal Requirements for Chinese Nationals in Import/Export

No Nationality Restrictions in Morocco

Foreigners, including Chinese citizens, can own 100% of a Moroccan company. Most import/export businesses use:

SARL (Limited Liability Company) for small to medium businesses
SA (Joint-stock Company) for larger-scale trade operations

Step-by-Step Guide: Opening an Import/Export Company in Morocco

Step 1: Define Your Trade Activity and Business Name

Choose a trade activity (e.g., general import/export, wholesale distribution)
Reserve the company name through the OMPIC platform

Step 2: Legalize Chinese Documents

All Chinese-origin documents must be:

Notarized in China
Authenticated by the Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry
Legalized at the Moroccan Embassy or Consulate in China

Common documents include:

Passport copies of shareholders
Power of attorney (if you appoint a local agent)
Business licenses (if existing Chinese entity is the shareholder)

Step 3: Draft Articles of Association

Create your bylaws in French or Arabic, with support from a local legal consultant. These documents will outline:

Shareholding structure
Management roles
Registered capital
Business purpose (import/export)

Step 4: Open a Bank Account and Deposit Capital

SARL minimum capital: MAD 10,000 (~$1,000 USD)
Obtain a certificate of capital deposit from the bank

Step 5: Register with the Regional Investment Center (CRI)

Submit your file including:

Bylaws
Identity/passport
Proof of address (lease or ownership contract)
Capital deposit proof
Negative certificate (business name approval)

The CRI will issue:

RC (Company registration number)
ICE (Company Identifier Code)
Tax ID
CNSS affiliation for social security

Total registration time: 1–2 weeks

Import & Export License and Customs Registration

1. Customs Code (Code Douanier)

Once your company is registered, you must:

Apply for a customs identification number at the Administration des Douanes
This code allows you to import/export goods legally

2. Import/Export License (if applicable)

Certain goods (e.g., pharmaceuticals, food, telecoms equipment) require specific import licenses from relevant Moroccan ministries.

3. Foreign Exchange Registration

If your company will handle cross-border payments, you must declare operations with the Office des Changes for currency transfer compliance.

Banking and Currency Transfer

Morocco has a convertible currency framework for foreign investors. Chinese investors can:

Repatriate profits and capital under certain conditions
Use Moroccan banks for LC (Letters of Credit) or foreign remittance
Open Dirham or foreign currency accounts

Recommended to choose international banks with presence in Morocco

Key Sectors for Import/Export Companies

Many Chinese-owned import/export companies in Morocco operate in:

Machinery and electronics (imported from China for local resale or re-export)
Construction materials and tiles
Clothing and textiles
Food and agricultural products (e.g., exporting Moroccan olives or seafood to China)
Cosmetics and personal care products

Logistics and Customs Support

Morocco’s logistics infrastructure supports fast shipping and clearance:

Tanger Med: Direct shipping to 180+ global ports
Casablanca Port: Ideal for containerized goods
Modern customs declaration systems (BADR) allow electronic clearance
Private sector agents (transitaires, freight forwarders) help streamline the process

Cost Estimate to Start an Import/Export Company

Item	Estimated Cost (MAD)	Notes
Capital deposit (SARL)	10,000	Legal minimum
Accounting setup & CNSS	3,000 – 5,000	Payroll setup, tax number
Customs & licensing setup	2,000 – 4,000	Customs ID + sector license (if any)
Office lease deposit (3 months)	~15,000 – 30,000	Depends on city & zone

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need a local partner to open an import/export company in Morocco?

No. Chinese citizens can own 100% of the company, including in trade sectors.

2. Can I import Chinese products and resell them in Morocco?

Yes. Most consumer and industrial products can be imported freely. However, some require prior authorization or compliance standards (e.g., electronics, food).

3. Can I export Moroccan goods to China?

Absolutely. Products like seafood, olive oil, argan oil, and phosphate fertilizers are in demand and have dedicated trade corridors.

4. How long does the process take to register and go operational?

On average, 1 to 2 weeks for company registration, and 1 additional week for customs and license approvals.

5. Can I run the company remotely from China?

Yes, but you must appoint a local legal representative with power of attorney. Certain steps (like opening a bank account) may require in-person presence.

Conclusion: Morocco Is Open for Chinese Trade Entrepreneurs

With the right paperwork and proper local guidance, Chinese nationals can seamlessly open an import/export company in Morocco. From accessing global markets to enjoying customs advantages and tax incentives, Morocco is a gateway for Chinese trade expansion into Europe, West Africa, and beyond.

👉 Need hands-on support with registration, licensing, or customs setup?
Contact BH Adviser — your trusted local expert for Chinese businesses in Morocco.