Tax laws Mauritania

Mauritania's taxation system encompasses various taxes, including corporate and personal income taxes, value-added tax (VAT), property taxes, and other levies.

1. Corporate Income Tax:

  • Rates:
    • Standard Rate: 25% of net taxable profit or 2% of taxable revenue, whichever is higher. The minimum tax payable is MRU 100,000. 
    • Non-Resident Companies: Subject to a 15% withholding tax on Mauritania-sourced income, applicable to both residents and non-residents. 

2. Personal Income Tax:

  • Residents:
    • Progressive Rates: 15% to 40%, applied to monthly taxable income as follows:
      • Up to MRU 90,000: 15%
      • MRU 90,001 to MRU 210,000: 25%
      • Above MRU 210,000: 40% 
    • Non-Residents: Taxed on Mauritania-sourced income, including wages, at rates between 15% and 40%. 

3. Value-Added Tax (VAT):

  • Standard Rate: 16% for most commercial operations.
  • Special Rates:
    • Petroleum products: 20%
    • Telephony services: 18%
    • Financial activities (banking, money transfers): 14% citeturn0search0
  • Exports: Zero-rated for VAT purposes.
  • Registration: Mandatory for businesses with an annual turnover exceeding MRU 3 million. 

4. Property Taxes:

  • Built Property Tax: Levied on the rental value of built properties, with rates ranging from 3% to 10%. In practice, an 8% rate is commonly applied. 

5. Other Taxes:

  • Registration and Stamp Duties: Applicable to rental contracts, donations, and inter vivos gifts, with rates varying based on the asset type. For example, donations of real estate are subject to a 2% registration fee. 
  • Withholding Taxes: A 15% withholding tax replaces all direct and indirect taxes for non-established businesses providing services in Mauritania, unless a double taxation agreement specifies otherwise. 

Recent Developments:

Tax Reforms: The adoption of a new General Tax Code in 2019 introduced a corporate income tax and a semi-dual approach to personal income taxation, aiming to enhance tax administration efficiency. 

Energy Sector Initiatives: Efforts to position Mauritania as an energy hub include significant gas projects like the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim field, expected to boost economic growth and influence future tax policies. 

Note: Tax laws and regulations are subject to change. For the most current information, consult official Mauritanian tax authorities or seek professional tax advice.

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