The Republic of Benin, previously known as the People's Republic of Benin (1975-1989) and the Republic of Dahomey (1960-1975), is a small West African country of 112,622 square kilometers. Benin shares borders with Nigeria to the east, Togo to the west and Burkina Faso and Niger to the north.

Political and commercial links between the United States and Benin were established in the 1960s and remained cordial until the 1980s. In the mid-1980s, under the former revolutionary regime, relations became tense as Benin forged closer ties with socialist countries and officially criticized U.S. policies. Since the democratic and economic reforms in 1989, the situation has improved considerably. Cooperation between the governments of Benin and the United States is excellent, as exemplified by President Nicephore Solglo's official visit to Washington in July 1995. The actual Head of State and Head of Government is President Mathieu KEREKOU.

The best prospects for trade and investment lie in agriculture and agro-industry (more so in food processing). There are also opportunities for U.S. firms in offshore oil exploration and possibilities in natural gas powered turbines to produce electricity.

U.S. firms can take advantage of the privatization efforts and invest in one of the many state-owned companies scheduled to be privatized. Even though the infrastructure renovations are well underway, there will be a continuing demand for investment in the transportation sector (roads, bridges, etc.) in the coming years.

The commercial climate in Benin has become more favorable for U.S. firms in the past five years. Political leaders in place have established a functioning democratic structure. Furthermore, the leaders and decision-makers are very much aware of the country's problems and reiterate on every occasion their commitment to privatization and free-market principles.

For more information, do not hesitate to contact us

U.S. Embassy in Cotonou, Benin
Doing Business in Benin: http://buyusainfo.net/docs/x_3904947.pdf