Burkina faso Country Commercial Guide
Learn about the market conditions, opportunities, regulations, and business conditions in burkina faso, prepared by at U.S. Embassies worldwide by Commerce Department, State Department and other U.S. agencies’ professionals
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Distribution & Sales Channels
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Distribution and Sales Channels

Distribution and sales channels are concentrated in the country’s two largest cities, Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso. Goods imported into Burkina Faso typically arrive by truck from one of three ports: Lomé, Togo; Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire; or Tema, Ghana. Most imported goods pass through distribution centers in the capital before being shipped to other cities. It is highly recommended that U.S. firms use a local agent to introduce their products, as they possess the necessary experience and local network. The Burkinabè business community is also open to joint ventures, particularly in industries like food processing, construction, tourism, and cosmetics.

Using an Agent or Distributor

While there is no law in Burkina Faso that requires a U.S. firm to use a local agent or distributor, it is highly recommended. A capable local partner can be critical to successfully introducing U.S. products into a market traditionally dominated by French and Chinese goods. The Burkinabè business community is open to partnerships, but U.S. businesses should be aware that many local agents are involved in a wide range of business activities and may not be able to dedicate their full attention to a single product line. It is advisable to speak with and, when possible, visit your local agents regularly to ensure they understand your company’s expectations.

Establishing an Office

The process for establishing an office in Burkina Faso is now streamlined through the Centres de Formalités des Entreprises (CEFOREs), which function as one-stop shops for company registration. The process typically involves preparing incorporated documents, depositing a minimum paid-up share capital in a local bank, and registering at a CEFORE. CEFOREs facilitate the process for obtaining a business registration certificate, a tax identification number (NIF), and registering for social security. Burkina Faso’s regulations governing the establishment of businesses include most forms of companies admissible under French business law, such as public corporations, limited liability companies (SARL), and subsidiaries or affiliates of foreign enterprises. CEFOREs are in major cities throughout the country, including Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso.

For the latest Investment Climate Statement (ICS) which includes information on investment and business environments in foreign economies pertinent to establishing and operating an office and to hiring employees, visit the U.S. Department of State’s Investment Climate Statements website. OSE will include the executive summary of 2025 ICS upon availability.

Franchising

There are franchising opportunities in Burkina Faso, and some U.S. companies have already established franchises in the market, particularly in sectors such as car rentals, car dealerships, and freight forwarding. The legal framework for franchising falls under the general business law, with no specific franchising legislation. Franchises should be structured to comply with local business and commercial laws.

Direct Marketing

Direct marketing is a possible tool, particularly for selling to wholesalers (e.g., pharmaceuticals), but it is used infrequently in Burkina Faso. For foreign parties bidding on contracts, it is essential to have a local contact for direct follow-up, as face-to-face interactions remain the primary method for business development.

Joint Ventures/Licensing

The Burkinabè business community is very open to joint ventures with foreign investors, especially in the food processing, construction, tourism, and cosmetics industries. The legal requirements for joint ventures are governed by OHADA law (Organization for the Harmonization of Business Law in Africa), which standardizes business laws across its member states.

Express Delivery

Express delivery services are provided by major international firms, including DHL, Chronopost, UPS, and FedEx. The average time for a shipment to arrive from the U.S. is 1- 4 business days for express options. All shipments are subject to customs procedures, and a physical check may be carried out. Burkina Faso has a de minimis threshold of $100 for customs duties and taxes.

Due Diligence

It is crucial to perform careful due diligence before entering into any business transaction or partnership in Burkina Faso. This is particularly important due to the prevalence of advance-fee scams. Given that Burkina Faso is an emerging market, there are few private companies with the level of experience and expertise that U.S. companies might typically seek. To help American exporters formulate sound credit policies and vet potential partners, credit information on individual Burkinabè firms can be obtained by requesting an International Company Profile (ICP) through the U.S. Foreign Commercial Service

To practice professional services such as legal, accounting, and consulting in Burkina Faso, foreign firms and individuals must generally obtain a license from the relevant professional association or government body. These licensing requirements vary by profession and may involve specific educational, experience, or residency criteria. It is highly recommended to engage with a local partner or legal counsel to navigate these requirements.