Mauritania Council of Ministers Approves Local Content Law Draft Decree

Press Release Council of Ministers Approves Draft Decree on the Implementation of the Local Content Law in the Extractive Industries and Energy Sectors Nouakchott, sept. 3rd 2025 — The Council of Ministers, chaired yesterday by His Excellency the President of the Republic, Mr. Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, approved a draft decree for the implementation of Law No. 2024-045 of December 18, 2024, relating to local content in the extractive industries and energy sectors. This decree strengthens the national legal and regulatory framework by operationalizing the National Strategy on Local Content through clear implementation mechanisms and institutional as well as technical arrangements. The text provides for the creation of a National Local Content Council, defining its composition and functioning. The Council will be responsible for setting national strategies and policies in this field, supported by a dedicated Local Content Unit. The decree requires operators and contractors to submit three-year plans and annual reports on their commitments, which will be subject to rigorous monitoring. It enshrines the principle of national preference in employment and in the procurement of goods and services. Furthermore, it establishes a digital platform for monitoring and showcasing commitments, including a comprehensive database. The decree also sets out performance incentives as well as sanctions for non-compliance. This important step confirms the Government’s commitment to ensuring that the country’s natural resources generate sustainable economic and social benefits for Mauritania and its citizens. Ministry of Energy and Petroleum