Doing Business in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean

How Do I Export Products to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean?

President Obama announced the National Export Initiative (NEI) two years ago, with the goal of doubling exports by 2014. Visit the export.gov page on the Caribbean to get an overview of the economic conditions and opportunities in the region.

How Do I Invest in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean?

The U.S. Embassy Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean provides the following list of services to U.S. companies to assist you with your work in the Eastern Caribbean.  For more information, please contact Jonelle Watson at watsonjm@state.gov.

International Partner Search: We contact agents, distributors or other business partners using the marketing materials you provide, and then identify the companies that are interested and capable of becoming a viable representative for you.

Gold Key Matchmaking Service: We screen, qualify and arrange meetings with potential agents, distributors or other business partners.

International Company Profile: We investigate the capabilities, legitimacy and financial strength of a potential overseas business partner and provide useful information gleaned from government, industry and financial contacts, the local press and other sources.

Advocacy Services:  We will advocate for your project or bid with local governments, provided your project meets certain requirements.  We can also assist with certain business disputes.

What to be Aware of When Doing Business Abroad

The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)

 
The FCPA is an important anti-corruption tool designed to discourage corrupt business practices in favor of free and fair markets.  The FCPA prohibits promising, offering, giving or authorizing giving anything of value to a foreign government official where the purpose is to obtain or retain business.  These prohibitions apply to U.S. persons, both individuals and companies, and companies that are listed on U.S. exchanges. The statute also requires companies publicly traded in the U.S. to keep accurate books and records and implement appropriate internal controls.