How to Start a Business in Morocco: A Complete Guide for New Entrepreneurs

Starting a business in Morocco has become more accessible than ever thanks to government reforms, digitalisation of administrative services, and a growing entrepreneurial culture. Whether you are Moroccan, an expatriate, or an investor exploring new opportunities, the country offers a vibrant and fast-growing ecosystem. This guide explains step-by-step how to start a business in Morocco and how Maroc Pages can support you during your launch.

1. Choose the Right Business Idea

Every successful business begins with a validated idea. Start by analysing the market and identifying gaps in local supply. Morocco’s dynamic sectors include tourism, e-commerce, renewable energy, real estate, food delivery, wellness, beauty, logistics, and artisanal crafts. Once you’ve identified your idea, validate it with small surveys, competitor analysis, and profitability estimates.

2. Select a Legal Structure

In Morocco, the most common legal forms are:

• SARL (Société à Responsabilité Limitée) – ideal for small and medium businesses.
• SARLAU – SARL with one partner.
• SA (Société Anonyme) – best for larger companies.
• Auto-entrepreneur – perfect for freelancers and small service providers.

The auto-entrepreneur status is the simplest, offering low taxes and minimal paperwork, while the SARL adds credibility and allows partnership.

3. Register Your Business

Morocco has centralised business registration through the OMPIC – Office Marocain de la Propriété Industrielle et Commerciale. Here are the main steps:

1. Name Reservation: Choose a unique business name and register it with OMPIC.
2. Statutes Creation: Draft your company statutes.
3. Bank Capital Deposit: For SARL/SARLAU, deposit the minimum capital (as low as 1 MAD).
4. Signature Legalisation: Legalise the statutes and related documents.
5. Tax Registration: Obtain your ICE (Identifiant Commun de l’Entreprise).
6. CNSS Registration: Register your business and employees with Social Security.

These steps are now digitised through https://www.cri.gov.ma, making the process faster.

4. Prepare an Effective Business Plan

A strong business plan helps structure your goals and can attract investors. Include:

• Market analysis
• Target audience
• Revenue model
• Financial forecasts
• Growth strategy

5. Set Up Your Digital Presence

In Morocco, the majority of customers search for businesses online before making a decision. Start by:

• Building a website
• Creating social media profiles
• Listing your business on Maroc Pages (to appear on Google and increase visibility)

6. Market and Promote Your Business

This is where Maroc Pages becomes essential. Once you list your business, you benefit from:

• Increased visibility to thousands of Moroccan customers
• Higher ranking on search engines
• A dedicated business profile page with contact details, images, reviews, and services
• Opportunities to promote your business through ads and premium placement

7. Build Your Network

Whether you are based in Casablanca, Marrakech, Tangier, or Agadir, networking is crucial. Attend trade fairs, join entrepreneurial groups, and collaborate with other businesses listed on Maroc Pages.

8. Stay Compliant

Make sure you pay taxes, submit declarations, and maintain proper bookkeeping. You can hire a fiduciaire (accounting office) to help.

Starting a business in Morocco is a rewarding journey—and Maroc Pages is here to be your digital partner from day one.