Mauritania, with around 4.6 million people, is a largely desert nation where more than 30% of the population lives below the poverty line. Its economy is shaped by mining, fishing, and agriculture, but the country depends heavily on imports for consumer goods. Sparse infrastructure, long distances, and a small formal retail sector make trade and distribution challenging—yet opportunities are growing, especially in the capital Nouakchott and other key hubs.

Market Context & Trade Landscape

• Heavily import‑dependent: Foodstuffs, construction materials, vehicles, machinery, beverages, and textiles dominate imports.
• Gateway via ports: Most goods enter through the Port of Nouakchott, with additional flows from Senegal and Morocco.
• Growing retail sector: Urbanization in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou is creating demand for modern retail outlets and imported goods.
• E‑commerce potential: Internet penetration is rising (over 60% mobile penetration), and mobile money services like Mauritel’s solutions are fostering digital trade, though online retail is still early‑stage.
• Key trade partners: Morocco, China, France, and neighboring Senegal are major sources of consumer goods.

Distribution & Retail Channels

• Modern supermarkets & grocery stores: Notable chains in Nouakchott include Supermarché Bon Prix, Al Mahara, and Citydia, catering to middle‑ and upper‑income customers.
• Traditional wholesale & informal markets: The majority of trade still flows through large markets such as Marché Capitale and neighborhood kiosks, especially outside major cities.
• Cross‑border and regional traders: Many distributors import goods via Senegal or Morocco, maintaining strong regional trade links.
• Digital & e‑commerce platforms: Online retail is small but growing, supported by mobile payments and social media sales channels.

Recommended Market Entry Strategy

• Choose Nouakchott as your hub: It is the main port, logistics center, and home to leading supermarkets and distributors.
• Partner with established importers and retail groups: Work with those already importing from Europe, Asia, and North Africa.
• Utilize informal and wholesale networks: Engage with market wholesalers and kiosk distributors who move products nationwide.
• Pilot e‑commerce initiatives: Leverage mobile money and social media to reach younger consumers.
• Plan logistics carefully: Account for customs procedures, port clearance delays, and overland transport challenges to inland cities.

How SCA‑Partner Supports You

• Trade and channel‑market analysis
• Distributor and retailer identification and vetting
• E‑commerce pilot and digital logistics setup
• Import licensing, customs clearance, and clearance strategies
• Trademark registration, regulatory compliance, and due diligence

Local Support That Matters
Navigating markets with limited infrastructure, informal retail dominance, and complex import systems requires on‑the‑ground expertise. SCA‑Partner, based in Nairobi with presence across 54 African countries, provides the local knowledge and reliable partnerships you need to enter Mauritania effectively.

That’s where we come in.
👉 Visit us at: www.scapartner.com