Economic Overview, Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) LNG & Saharan Mining
Mauritania combines mega-scale offshore deepwater LNG extraction with historic Saharan iron ore and gold mining operations.
Key Economic Sectors
- Offshore LNG Mega-Projects: Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) floating LNG project and BirAllah gas fields.
- Iron Ore & Gold Mining: SNIM iron ore extraction in Zouérat and Kinross Tasiast gold mine.
- Atlantic Marine Fisheries: One of the world's most productive fishing zones centered in the deepwater port of Nouadhibou.
Employment Contracts, Labour Code (Loi 2004-017) & Probation
Regulated by Law No. 2004-017 (Code du Travail Mauritanien).
- Written Contracts: Mandatory in French or Arabic detailing wages and job category.
- Probation Period: Maximum 1 month for workers, 2 months for supervisors, and 3 months for executives (*cadres*).
Working Hours, Leave & Social Security (CNSS & CNAM)
- Standard Hours: 40 hours per week (8 hours/day over 5 days).
- Annual Leave: Minimum 24 working days (2 days per month worked) per continuous year of service.
- Public Holidays: 10 official national public holidays.
- Maternity Leave: 14 consecutive weeks fully paid leave (paid via CNSS and employer top-ups).
Social Security (CNSS 15%), CNAM Health (4%) & ITS Tax
| Statutory Scheme | Employer Share | Employee Share | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Social Security (CNSS) | 15.00% | 1.00% | Pensions, family allowances & workplace accidents (capped base) |
| National Health Insurance (CNAM) | 4.00% | 4.00% | Universal health insurance (uncapped) |
| Total Statutory Contributions | 19.00% | 5.00% | Total monthly social burden |
Personal Income Tax (ITS): Progressive brackets from 0% up to 40% on taxable income, remitted to DGI.
Why Use an Employer of Record (EOR) in Mauritania
- Rapid Energy & Mining Deployment: Onboard mining engineers and offshore technicians in Nouakchott or Nouadhibou in days.
- CNSS, CNAM & DGI Compliance: Automated management of 19% employer social contributions and local ITS tax declarations.
Hiring in Mauritania? Key Resources
Whether you are evaluating entity setup vs. using an Employer of Record, or looking for the best international payroll solution, our guides give you transparent benchmarks:
