Casablanca Finance City has established itself as a leading financial hub in Africa, attracting international companies thanks to an attractive and evolving regulatory framework. Designed to rival global hubs such as Dubai, CFC offers several categories of licenses tailored to the specific needs of companies.
Eligibility requirements for European Union Annual Pressure Transfers
The conditions for applying to CFC change every year, influenced by international standards and particularly under pressure from the European Union. Currently, criteria include a minimum turnover of one million euros, with at least 50% of sales coming from exports. Companies must also have a physical presence in the zone, either through a local office.
Office space tailored to business needs
CFC offers a wide range of office space, from flat-pack offices to co-working options, starting at 5,000 DHS per month. This flexibility meets the needs of start-ups as well as large international companies looking to establish a presence in the region.
Attractive tax benefits
CFC-eligible companies benefit from tax exemptions over a five-year period, as well as a 20% income tax cap. In addition, dividends distributed abroad from export activities are not subject to withholding tax.
Simplified recruitment of foreign employees
A significant advantage of CFC is the absence of an ANAPEC procedure for recruiting foreign employees. Unlike in other regions, this administrative simplification enables companies to recruit international talent more quickly and efficiently, without the delays often associated with work permit procedures.
CFC license categories to suit different company profiles
Companies can opt for different CFC license categories, such as holding company, service provider, representative office or regional headquarters. Each category imposes specific obligations, tailored to the company’s commercial and strategic objectives.
Companies interested in a CFC license must pay a substantial initial fee.
For corporations, fees include an initial registration fee of 10,000 euros, followed by an annual payment of between 8,000 and 18,000 euros, depending on the company’s size and annual sales. For head office or representative office licenses, companies pay an initial registration fee of 4,000 euros, followed by an annual payment of 5,000 euros.
Internal Arbitration Tribunal :
SIMAC, a guarantee of legal security
CFC also offers an internal arbitration tribunal called SIMAC, reinforcing the legal security of companies operating in the zone. This mechanism, similar to the Dubai model, ensures efficient resolution of commercial disputes, while consolidating CFC’s reputation as a trusted financial center in Africa.
In conclusion, Casablanca Finance City represents a unique opportunity for companies seeking to expand in Africa, while benefiting from a favorable regulatory environment and numerous tax advantages. With flexible admission requirements and an adapted infrastructure, CFC continues to attract international investment and strengthen its position as the regional financial hub of choice.