Financial Crime World

Title: Mauritius: Two Attractive Company Structures for Global Businesses - Authorised Companies and Global Business Companies

Mauritius, an established financial and business hub in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for offering unique company registration structures to cater to diverse business needs. Two such structures that have garnered significant attention from international businesses are the Authorised Company (AC) and the Global Business Company (GBC). In this article, we will explore the differences, eligibility, tax benefits, and the setup process for these structures.

1. The Differences: AC vs GBC

  • Authorised Company (AC): Designed primarily for businesses intending to operate outside of Mauritius.
  • Global Business Company (GBC): Permits conducting both local and international activities within Mauritius.

2. Eligibility: Suitable Business Types

Authorised Company (AC)

  • International trading companies
  • Offshore investment companies
  • Offshore service providers (consulting firms, e-commerce businesses)
  • Companies managing intellectual property rights

Global Business Company (GBC)

  • Global trading companies
  • Investment holding companies engaged in international investment activities
  • Financial services companies
  • International e-commerce businesses
  • International consulting firms providing services globally

3. Tax Incentives: Attractive Benefits

Authorised Company (AC)

  • Exempted from local tax as non-residents for tax purposes
  • Pay an annual license fee

Global Business Company (GBC)

  • Subject to a 15% corporate tax rate
  • Benefit from an 80% deemed foreign tax credit, reducing effective tax rate to 3%
  • Access various benefits under Mauritius’ Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs)

4. Foreigners and Non-Residents: Setting Up Companies

Both AC and GBC are open to foreigners and non-residents with varying requirements:

  • AC: Full foreign ownership and control
  • GBC: Requires a resident director who can be appointed through a nominee service

5. Minimum Capital Requirement: No Specified Amount

Mauritius does not have a specified minimum capital requirement for registering an AC or a GBC. It is crucial to ensure adequate capital for operational costs and business objectives.

6. Business Sectors: A Diverse Economy

Mauritius boasts a diverse economy with the following significant sectors:

  • Financial Services
  • Tourism and Hospitality
  • Information and Communication Technology
  • Agribusiness
  • Manufacturing and Export
  • Real Estate and Construction
  • Renewable Energy

7. Setting Up Your Business in Mauritius

AsiaBC, a leading business formation services provider in Mauritius, can guide foreign entrepreneurs in selecting the appropriate company structure for their needs and ensuring all legal requirements and local regulations are met. For the most accurate and current information related to business formation in Mauritius, contact us.