Commercial activities law

This law regulates and promotes trade, production, distribution and services. It enshrines freedom of trade, subject to conditions. Nationals may trade once registered; foreigners must set up a company and obtain ministerial approval, with a quota of 90% Gabonese employees. Measures support entrepreneurship by young people and women. Domestic trade requires declaring stocks and storage sites, and separating production, import and distribution activities unless authorised. Concession, franchise and exclusivity contracts must be approved and drafted in French and English. E-commerce is free, with exceptions. External trade remains free, some imports needing authorisation, with anti-dumping, countervailing and safeguard tools. Sworn officers carry out inspections. Operators have twelve months to comply. Published in Official Journal No. 60 quinquies of 28 March 2025.