The 2026 US Business Mission to Mauritania is organized by the Washington Insight Group and the National Union of Mauritanian Employers (UNPM), with the support of the Embassy of Mauritania, in Washington, DC.

The Honorable Cissé Cheikh Boide, Ambassador of Mauritania to the United States, remains a key supporter of this 2026 US Business Mission. The Washington Insight Group recognize her ongoing support and leadership.

JOIN THE U.S. BUSINESS MISSION TO MAURITANIA

Mauritania is rapidly positioning itself as a gateway for investment in West Africa, offering significant opportunities across multiple high-growth sectors. This exclusive U.S. Business Mission provides direct access to key decision-makers, business leaders, and government stakeholders.

Mauritania stands at a pivotal moment of economic transformation. With abundant natural resources, a strategic geographic position bridging North and Sub-Saharan Africa, and a government committed to private sector-led growth, this nation offers a compelling destination for American investment across sectors including energy, mining, fisheries, agriculture, infrastructure, and emerging industries.

To support and attract high-quality foreign investment, Mauritania has implemented a modern and investor-friendly Investment Law that provides a wide range of incentives and protections, including:

• Tax Incentives: Qualified investors benefit from corporate tax exemptions for a defined period, reduced customs duties on imported equipment, and exemptions from value-added tax (VAT) on key inputs.
• Customs and Import Benefits: Duty-free importation of capital goods and materials necessary for project implementation.
• Legal Guarantees: Full protection against expropriation, with guarantees of fair and prompt compensation in accordance with international standards.
• Repatriation of Profits: Freedom to transfer profits, dividends, and capital abroad without restriction, in full compliance with applicable financial regulations.
• Equal Treatment: Foreign investors receive the same rights and protections as domestic investors, ensuring a level playing field.
• Streamlined Administrative Procedures: A “one-stop shop” investment promotion framework has been established to facilitate rapid business registration, licensing, and approvals.
• Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Framework: Attractive opportunities exist under a clear PPP legal structure, particularly in infrastructure, energy, and logistics.
• Special Economic Zones (SEZs): Investors operating within designated zones may benefit from additional fiscal and regulatory advantages.

In addition to these incentives, Mauritania offers strong macroeconomic stability, ongoing reforms to improve the business climate, and a growing commitment to transparency and good governance.

The upcoming Business Mission will provide a unique opportunity for U.S. companies to engage directly with Mauritanian government officials, explore high-potential projects, and build strategic partnerships with local stakeholders.

Site visits, sector-specific briefings, and tailored business-to-business meetings will be organized to ensure meaningful engagement.

Overall economic situation

• GDP (total size): about $12 billion in 2025
• Growth rate: around 4% per year (moderate growth)
• GDP per person: roughly $2,500–$2,700

Main industries (what drives the economy)

Mauritania’s economy is resource-based, meaning it depends heavily on extracting natural resources:

1. Mining (most important)

• Iron ore (major export)
• Gold and copper
  Mining accounts for a large share of exports and government revenue

2. Fishing

• One of the richest fishing zones in the Atlantic
  A key export sector

3. Energy (fast-growing)

• New offshore natural gas (LNG) production started in 2025
  Expected to boost growth and government income significantly

4. Agriculture & livestock

• Many people rely on farming and herding
  Still important for jobs, but less productive and affected by droughts

KEY SECTORS INCLUDE:
• Energy (Oil, Gas & Renewables)
• Mining & Natural Resources
• Infrastructure & Construction
• Agriculture & Agribusiness
• Fisheries & Blue Economy
• Digital Economy & Telecommunications
• Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
• Logistics, Transportation & Defense

WHY JOIN?
• Pre-arranged B2B meetings with vetted local partners
• High-level meetings with government officials
• In-depth market intelligence and sector briefings
• Site visits to major projects and industrial zones
• Networking receptions with industry leaders

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
U.S. companies, investors, exporters, and organizations seeking to expand into Mauritania and the broader West African region.

MISSION DETAILS
Location: Nouakchott, Mauritania
Dates: October 3-8, 2026
Registration Deadline: August 15, 2026

ABOUT the Washington Insight Group:
The Washington Insight Group is a leading consulting firm specializing in international trade and investment facilitation. With deep regional expertise and strong partnerships across Africa, we provide end-to-end support to ensure successful market entry and business expansion.

Business Opportunities in Mauritania

The opportunities for US investment and trade in Mauritania are nearly unlimited. The following goods and services are currently being procured by both the Mauritanian Government and select private Mauritanian companies:

• Infrastructure:
• Water Resources:
• Construction:
• Healthcare & Medical Facilities:
• Transportation:
• Agriculture:
• Energy:
• Technology:
• Manufacturing:

Schedule: Nouakchott, Mauritania Mission

Saturday October 3, 2026

Leave United States for Europe to make a connection flight to Nouakchott and arrive on Sunday October 4, 2026 (Delegates are responsible for their own travel arrangements and ticket purchase).

Sunday October 4, 2026

10am-4pm-Arrive in at the Nouakchott International Airport. After disembarking from the airplane, clearing customs and collecting your baggage, follow the Washington Insight Group signs to join the Mission delegates in the airport. Once you join the other delegates, you will enjoy a VIP escort to your hotel.

12pm-5pm- Check in at Nouakchott’s premier four-star hotel.

7pm- Welcoming dinner for trade mission delegates at the hotel.

Monday October 5, 2026

Day 1 : Presentations & Panel Discussions

Morning: 9am-12pm

After an official opening by High Officials from the Government of Mauritania

Panel sessions featuring U.S. delegates presenting their companies and investment profiles. Followed by Questions & Answers

Afternoon: 2pm-5pm

Panel sessions highlighting Mauritania’s private sector companies and opportunities. Followed by Questions & Answers

Tuesday October 6, 2026

Day 2 – B2B Meetings: 10am-5pm

• U.S. delegates meet with their Mauritanian counterparts for targeted business-to-business (B2B) meetings and partnership discussions.

Wednesday October 7, 2026

Day 3 –
9am-5pm: US Mauritania Business Forum with signing of MoUs

2pm- 5pm: Touristic Visit to the city of Nouakchott

Thursday October 8, 2026

Leave Nouakchott for Europe to make a connection flight to the United States. You will arrive to the US the next day. (Delegates are responsible for their own travel arrangements and ticket purchase).