Mauritius

Mauritius offers a business-friendly and rapidly growing jurisdiction with a straightforward company incorporation process typically completed within 1 to 3 weeks. There is no minimum capital requirement for private companies, providing flexibility for startups and international investors. Mauritius features a competitive corporate tax rate of 15%, with various incentives and an extensive network of double tax treaties. Its common law legal system, political stability, and strategic location between Africa and Asia make it an attractive hub for holding companies, investment funds, trading businesses, and offshore operations. Mauritius also benefits from a well-regulated financial sector and growing infrastructure, although compliance with international standards on transparency and substance requirements is increasingly emphasized.

Mauritius is a rapidly growing international financial center, known for its stable political environment, investor-friendly legal framework based on common law, and strategic location linking Africa and Asia. The jurisdiction offers a robust regulatory environment, extensive double taxation treaties, and a favorable tax regime, making it an attractive base for holding companies, investment funds, trading businesses, and international service providers.

Types of Companies in Mauritius

  • Global Business Company (GBC1)
    The primary vehicle for international business, offering full access to Mauritius’ tax treaties. Requires licensing by the Financial Services Commission (FSC). Minimum one director and one shareholder required; no restriction on nationality. Minimum share capital is typically USD 1,000.
  • Domestic Company
    Used for local business activities. Requires registration with the Registrar of Companies. Usually no minimum capital requirement unless otherwise specified.
  • Authorized Company (GBC2)
    Suited for companies operating offshore without treaty benefits. Lower compliance but limited to non-resident activities.
  • Other Forms
    Include Limited Partnerships, Protected Cell Companies, and trusts, tailored for investment and estate planning.

Key Features of Mauritius Companies

  • Incorporation Process
    Incorporation typically takes 5 to 10 business days and requires submission of constitutional documents, details of directors and shareholders, and a registered office address in Mauritius.
  • Minimum Capital Requirements
    Generally USD 1,000 for GBC1 companies; domestic companies may require less or no minimum capital.
  • Corporate Taxation
    Mauritius has a flat corporate tax rate of 15%, with partial tax credit systems and various exemptions available. The extensive treaty network helps reduce withholding taxes and avoid double taxation.
  • Business Environment
    The jurisdiction offers political stability, a transparent legal system, English as the official business language, and a growing financial services infrastructure. It is recognized for its ease of doing business and investor protections.
  • Compliance and Reporting
    Annual financial statements must be audited and filed with the Registrar of Companies. GBC1 companies submit annual returns to the FSC. Compliance with AML/KYC regulations is strictly enforced.

Common Uses of Mauritius Companies

  • Holding companies benefiting from the tax treaty network and low effective tax rates.
  • International trading and e-commerce businesses.
  • Investment funds and private equity structures.
  • Offshore service providers and captive insurance companies.

Why Choose Mauritius?

Mauritius combines a favorable tax and regulatory environment with strategic geographic positioning. Its ease of company formation, robust legal framework, and growing network of double tax treaties make it a preferred jurisdiction for international business and investment activities targeting Africa, Asia, and beyond.

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