If you've been researching offshore company formation in Mauritius, you've almost certainly encountered the term Global Business Company (GBC). It is the cornerstone of Mauritius's international financial services sector and the primary vehicle through which NRIs and global investors access the island's tax treaty network. Here's everything you need to know.
What is a GBC?
A Global Business Company is a Mauritius-incorporated company licensed by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) to conduct business primarily outside Mauritius. The GBC structure was introduced under the Financial Services Act 2007 and is the successor to the former Category 1 Global Business Licence (GBL1).
The defining characteristic of a GBC is that it is tax resident in Mauritius — meaning it can access Mauritius's network of Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs) with 46+ countries, including India.
Key Features of a Mauritius GBC
- Tax residency: Mauritius (accesses DTAA network)
- Corporate tax rate: 15% flat on net income
- Capital gains tax: Nil
- Dividend withholding tax: Nil (to non-residents)
- Minimum directors: 2 resident directors (Mauritius-based)
- Registered office: Must be in Mauritius
- Substance requirements: Must demonstrate genuine economic substance in Mauritius
- Annual FSC licence renewal: Required
- Audited accounts: Required annually
GBC vs Authorised Company: What's the Difference?
An Authorised Company is a lighter-touch structure for holding assets or conducting limited activities. It does not access DTAA benefits and is not tax resident in Mauritius. For NRIs seeking DTAA protection with India, the GBC is the correct vehicle.
Economic Substance Requirements
Post-2019, Mauritius introduced economic substance requirements aligned with OECD BEPS standards. A GBC must demonstrate that it has genuine substance in Mauritius — meaning adequate employees, physical presence, and decision-making occurring on the island. Blueberry's management company partners ensure your GBC meets all substance requirements compliantly.
How to Obtain a GBC Licence
- Appoint a licensed Management Company (required by law)
- Submit FSC application with business plan, KYC, and constitutional documents
- FSC review: typically 7–10 business days
- Receive FSC licence and Certificate of Incorporation
- Open corporate bank account
Is a GBC Right for You?
A GBC is ideal if you are an NRI or international investor seeking to: hold investments in India with DTAA protection, route international trade through a tax-efficient entity, or structure a family office or holding company with global reach.
Start your Mauritius GBC formation with Blueberry →
Also read: Complete Guide to Company Formation in Mauritius | Why NRIs Should Form a Company in Mauritius in 2025 | Mauritius vs Singapore: Which is Better for NRIs?