Discusses the legal requirements/options for joint venture/licensing in this market.
Last Published: 8/6/2019

U.S. companies should seek professional assistance in negotiating agreements and selecting partners.  Widespread corruption, scams, and a weak and corruptible legal system present major risks for investors entering joint ventures:  as elsewhere, if a deal sounds too good to be true, it likely is.  Licensing and sales and manufacturer’s representatives exist, though most U.S. brands covering the area are located in a separate regional office in Africa, often Nigeria or Senegal. Sales agents can be bound by contracts, but these may be difficult to enforce in case of problems.

Prepared by the International Trade Administration. With its network of more than 100 offices across the United States and in more than 75 markets, the International Trade Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.