Setting Up and Establishing a Company in Cameroon

To set up and establish a company in Cameroon, no prior administrative authorization is required, except for certain specific activities.

From a legal perspective, commercial companies are governed by the OHADA (Organization for the Harmonization of Business Law in Africa—occasionally referred to in English as OHBLA) Uniform Act relating to Commercial Companies and Economic Interest Groups. According to this Uniform Act, the rules governing both limited liability and unlimited liability companies are clearly outlined to foster a transparent and healthy business environment, aligned with global standards and adapted specifically for Africa.

In Cameroon, where the law recognizes private enterprises, various types of business structures exist, the most common being:

• The Public Limited Company (S.A.)
• The Private Limited Company (S.A.R.L.)

Practical Considerations for Company Formation

In practice, however, the process is not always as straightforward as the theory suggests. The complexities of the business landscape often present challenges. Drawing from our extensive experience in corporate affairs, we have simplified these complexities into the following key formalities:

1. Criminal Record Check:
• A prospective business owner must obtain a certificate of non-conviction to verify their criminal record.
• Foreign investors must also possess valid entry and residence documents.
2. Deposit of Capital:
• Once the business structure is determined, the required minimum legal capital must be deposited with a Notary Public or a recognized bank, as mandated by law.
3. Drafting and Registration of Articles of Association:
• The Articles of Association must be drafted with the assistance of legal counsel and a Notary Public.
• An application for company registration must then be submitted to the Trade and Personal Property Credit Register through the Registry of the Court of First Instance in the area where the company’s headquarters will be located.
• Upon approval, a Certificate of Incorporation will be issued, followed by publication in the official legal journal.
4. Business Tax Exemption:
• After obtaining the Certificate of Incorporation, an application should be made for a two-year business tax exemption.
• During this period, the company must declare its activities on or before the 15th of each month to allow the State to assess its operations and determine the appropriate tax regime.
5. Taxpayer Identification:
• Once the tax exemption period is over, obtaining a Taxpayer’s Card is mandatory.
6. Employee Registration with Social Insurance:
• All employees must be declared to the National Social Insurance Fund (NSIF-CNPS) to ensure compliance with labor and social security laws.

Estimated Timeline

If all required documents are submitted correctly and without delay, the entire company registration process can typically be completed within fifteen (15) days.

The Business Climate in Cameroon

Now, more than ever, the Cameroonian government is committed to creating a conducive and investor-friendly environment for both domestic and foreign investors. The government actively promotes investment in legally authorized business sectors by simplifying administrative procedures and enhancing regulatory frameworks.

At MOJUFISC, we have tailored our services to address the challenges and complexities encountered in business practice. We invite you to invest in Cameroon with the quality and diligent support of MOJUFISC—a decision you will never regret.

Mojufisc Team