Establishing local partnerships is an effective strategy for navigating Mozambique’s business environment. Investors and exporters should plan regular visits to Mozambique to build new relationships and maintain existing ones. Many companies find it beneficial to set up a local office to interact directly with government officials and clients, as well as to gain insights into potential business opportunities. A local office can also provide a competitive advantage when bidding for public tenders.
The Government of Mozambique’s Agency for the Promotion of Investment and Exports (APIEX) serves as a one-stop-shop for potential investors. APIEX offers assistance with obtaining licenses, permits, and information on available tax incentives, especially for companies that incorporate local content or have strong social responsibility policies. The agency also manages several industrial zones, which provide attractive tax incentives and are primarily geared toward manufacturing and export-oriented businesses.
It is highly recommended that prospective investors engage local legal counsel to navigate the complexities of Mozambique’s regulatory environment. Working with local lawyers can help mitigate risks related to corruption and bureaucracy and ensure that contracts and agreements are formalized in writing.
U.S. companies interested in establishing a local presence or identifying local distribution partners can reach out to the U.S. Commercial Service for expert advice on market entry strategies.