Creating local partnerships can be a useful way to help navigate the local business market. Investors and exporters should make frequent visits to Mozambique to establish new contacts and maintain current ones. Most companies find it advantageous to establish a local office in Mozambique to deal with officials and clients and to obtain information on potential business opportunities. Having a local office can also be advantageous when bidding for public tenders.

The Government of Mozambique created the Agency for the Promotion of Investment and Exports (Agência de Promoção de Investimentos e Exportações; APIEX) to serve as a one-stop-shop for potential investors in Mozambique. Prospective investors are encouraged to consult APIEX for assistance in obtaining licenses and permits. APIEX can also assist in providing tax incentives to companies related to the inclusion of local content, as well as companies’ social responsibility policies. In addition, APIEX controls several industrial zones that have major tax incentives. These zones are mostly industry specific and intended for manufacturing and export-oriented businesses.

Prospective investors are encouraged to seek local legal counsel. Corruption and bureaucratic obstacles can be addressed and minimized by working with local lawyers and by insisting that contracts and offers are in writing.

U.S. companies interested in establishing local entities or finding local distribution partners may contact the U.S. Commercial Service for counseling on market entry.