Chinese investors can legally open a company in Morocco under the same framework as other foreign nationals. The Moroccan government encourages international investment, especially from strategic partners like China. With the right preparation—including obtaining an Overseas Direct Investment (ODI) permit from China, and understanding Morocco’s company registration process—Chinese nationals can set up a business in Morocco in as little as two weeks.

Why Morocco Is a Strategic Choice for Chinese Investors

Morocco is one of the most stable and investment-friendly countries in Africa, with close trade ties to both Europe and the United States. Thanks to free trade agreements (FTAs) with the EU, USA, and numerous African nations, goods manufactured or traded in Morocco can reach over 1 billion consumers tariff-free.

Key advantages for Chinese entrepreneurs:

Proximity to Europe (just 14 km from Spain) and strong infrastructure
The Tanger Med Port, the largest in Africa, ranked among the top 25 ports globally
Bilateral agreements between China and Morocco, including a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement
Preferential treatment in industrial zones such as Mohammed VI Tangier Tech City

Legal Requirements for Chinese Citizens to Open a Company in Morocco

2. No Nationality Restrictions in Morocco

Moroccan law does not restrict company ownership by nationality. Chinese citizens may own 100% of a Moroccan company. Most commonly, foreign investors choose one of the following legal forms:

SARL (Société à Responsabilité Limitée) – equivalent to a limited liability company
SA (Société Anonyme) – suitable for larger capital or public companies

Step-by-Step Guide to Opening a Company in Morocco

Step 1: Define Business Type and Name

Choose the appropriate business activity, define a name (must be registered at the Regional Investment Center), and prepare a draft of the Articles of Association.

Step 2: Obtain the Negative Certificate

Register your business name through the OMPIC (Moroccan Office of Industrial and Commercial Property). This certificate ensures the name is unique and reserved.

Step 3: Draft the Articles of Association

Work with a Moroccan notary or legal consultant to create your company’s bylaws (statuts), detailing capital, ownership, and management structure.

Step 4: Open a Business Bank Account

Deposit the minimum capital:

SARL: MAD 10,000 (~$1,000 USD)
SA: MAD 300,000 (~$30,000 USD)

A capital deposit certificate will be issued by the bank.

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

Submit the complete file to the CRI, including:

Articles of Association
Negative Certificate
Shareholders’ IDs/passports
Proof of address (lease or ownership of business premises)
Capital deposit certificate

The registration process takes approximately 10-15 working days.

You will receive:

ICE (Company Identifier Code)
Patente (Professional Tax number)
CNSS affiliation (social security)
Tax Identification Number (IF)

Sectors Open to Chinese Investors

China is Morocco’s 3rd largest trading partner, and many sectors are open to foreign capital:

Industrial Manufacturing

Chinese firms are already investing in automotive components, textiles, and electronics, often exporting directly to Europe or the US.

Renewable Energy

Morocco’s push for green energy (solar, wind, and hydrogen) welcomes Chinese expertise and tech.

Logistics and Transport

With strong infrastructure and access to 50+ ports in Africa, Morocco is perfect for logistics hubs.

Tourism and Hospitality

Chinese investors are increasingly involved in building hotels, resorts, and travel platforms—especially as Morocco aims to attract more Asian tourists.

Incentives and Tax Benefits for Chinese Companies

Morocco’s New Investment Charter (2023) includes:

Subsidies covering up to 30% of investment costs
Exemption from corporate tax for up to 5 years in designated industrial zones
VAT exemptions for imported equipment
No customs duties under the China-Morocco FTA for specific goods

💡 Learn more about the Investment Charter on the official Moroccan Investment and Export Development Agency (AMDIE ) website.

Key Considerations for Chinese Entrepreneurs

Can documents be notarized in China?

Yes. Documents can be notarized and legalized in China, following the authentication process:

Notarized by a Chinese public notary
Authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China
Legalized by the notary in China

Business Premises

Foreign companies must show proof of address. Rental contracts or ownership deeds must be included during registration. You may also use:

Shared office spaces
Industrial zones with plug-and-play solutions

Appointing a Manager

You may appoint a local or foreign manager. The manager does not need to be a Moroccan national.

FAQ: Morocco Company Opening Policy for Chinese Investors

1. Can a Chinese citizen own 100% of a Moroccan company?

Yes. Moroccan law allows 100% foreign ownership in most sectors, including SARL and SA company structures.

2. Is it necessary to travel to Morocco to register a company?

Not always. With a local representative and notarized power of attorney, the company can be set up remotely. However, in-person bank visits may be required for account activation.

3. How long does the registration process take?

Typically between 10–15 working days from document submission to full registration.

4. Is Morocco part of any trade agreements that benefit exports?

Yes. Morocco has FTAs with the EU, USA, China, and African countries, allowing easy access to global markets.

5. Are there industrial zones for Chinese businesses?

Yes. Tangier Tech City, a joint Morocco-China project, is designed to host hundreds of Chinese firms and manufacturers.

Conclusion: Morocco Welcomes Chinese Investment

Opening a company in Morocco as a Chinese entrepreneur is not only legal—it’s encouraged. With political stability, international trade access, and government incentives, Morocco serves as an ideal launchpad into African, European, and US markets.

Whether you’re in manufacturing, logistics, tourism, or tech, Morocco offers a fast and transparent setup process, low taxes, and strategic global connections.

Interested in personalized help setting up your company in Morocco?
👉 Contact our team of experts at BH Adviser — we’ll guide you step-by-step, from planning to registration and beyond.