Includes steps involved in establishing a local office.
Last Published: 4/12/2019

The Gambia Investment and Export Proportion (GIEPA) assists foreign investors to establish businesses in The Gambia.  According to the 2016 Doing Business report, it takes seven procedures to register a business in The Gambia.  These procedures include registering a unique company name, obtaining a tax identification number, registering employees with the Social Security and Housing Finance Corporation, registering with the Commercial Registry, obtaining an operational license, and designing a company seal.  While this can be done by anyone in theory, a local attorney who is familiar with the system can facilitate the process.  The local incorporation fee for businesses is GMD 10,000 ($211).  Other procedures  might also impose additional, albeit less costly, fees.  In 2010, a Single Window Business Registration Desk was established at the GIEPA offices.  This initiative has reduced the number of days to register a business down to one day. 

Establishing an office in The Gambia is not difficult.  Real estate prices are generally low relative to average domestic income levels.  Several modern commercial centers are under construction, which should add to the supply of office buildings and further reduction of rental costs.  A 160 hectare Business Park is under construction at the International Airport City Free Zone, and will be a significant boost for businesses seeking office space in The Gambia.
 

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