Turning local challenges into opportunities
Chad dangles at the bottom of the Human Development Index. But that is far from saying everything about this African country: it is rich in arable land, sunshine, water, minerals - and above all: people.
Chad ranks near the bottom of the Human Development Index. But that status conceals deeper layers. The country is rich in cultivable land, sunshine, water, minerals – and most importantly, its people. Over 60% of its 21 million citizens are under 25. With a population growing at 3.6% annually, demand for jobs, services, and infrastructure is accelerating. In sectors like agriculture, energy, and ICT, the potential is significant.
At Job Booster Chad Enterprise, we’ve spent the last five years working with youth and women to turn local challenges into income-generating opportunities. We chose Chad not in spite of its struggles, but because they matter. That’s where real opportunity begins.
Understanding the socioeconomic context
Over 80% of Chadians experience multidimensional poverty. Employment is mostly informal. Agriculture employs nearly 70% of the population, yet it is largely subsistence based. Irrigation is rare. Tools are basic. Processing is limited. Products like cotton, sesame, shea, and livestock leave the country raw, missing chances to add local value.
This is where businesses can make a difference. Supporting local processing, building supply chains, and investing in knowledge can shift the economy—and communities—with lasting results.
Legal and administrative framework
Chad follows the OHADA legal framework, used in several African nations. The Ministry of Trade and Industry, through its agency ANIE, manages business registration and investment promotion. Thanks to reforms, registering a company now takes about a week.
You’ll need:
- Articles of incorporation;
- Registration with the RCCM (Commerce Registry);
- A tax ID (NIF);
- A business licence.
Foreign companies can open a branch (succursal), which requires ministerial approval. It’s valid for two years, renewable once. After four years, it must either convert into a local entity or shut down.
Navigating these steps is smoother with a trusted local partner—someone familiar with the administrative rhythm and realities.
Labour Code and hiring in Chad
Fixed-term contracts must be written. Permanent ones can be verbal, but written agreements are safer. Include the job description, location, hours, and salary. The legal workweek is 39 hours. Overtime is allowed and must be paid. The minimum wage is 60,000 XAF (around €100).
Employers must register staff with CNPS (social security), contributing 16.5% of gross salary; employees contribute 3.5%. Hiring foreign staff is allowed but requires a permit via ONAPE and justification for the role. More and more, companies are expected to support local skills development.
Infrastructure realities
Internet is provided by Moov Africa and Airtel, though outages occur due to fibre issues in neighbouring countries. Starlink now offers a more stable alternative. Electricity from the grid is unreliable, making solar power essential. Office rentals are available in major cities, with costs varying by location.
Tax and financial framework
Taxes vary by structure and turnover. Key points:
- Corporate Income Tax: 35% on net profit.
- VAT: 19.25%, with lower rates on local goods and exports.
- Business License Tax: 0.35% of turnover (waived in the first year).
- Withholding Taxes: 15–25% on dividends, interest, and services for non-residents.
Annual updates to Chad’s finance law mean that working with a local accountant is vital. A legal advisor helps ensure compliance and avoids surprises.
Final thoughts
Chad isn’t easy. But for entrepreneurs willing to think long-term, work through complexity, and invest in people, the rewards are real. Growth here isn’t just economic—it’s human.
If you're an entrepreneur considering Chad, let’s talk. At Job Booster Chad Enterprise, we’re here to help build businesses that leave a lasting mark.
Hyacinthe Ndolenodji, Director Job Booster Chad Enterprise
