Doing Business with Bahrain

Here’s a guide on how to export goods to Bahrain:

1. Research Market Requirements

   • Understand Bahrain’s demand for your products and local market trends.

2. Understand Export Regulations

   • Familiarize yourself with Bahraini import regulations, tariffs, and standards.

3. Product Classification

   • Determine the correct Harmonized System (HS) code for your product.

4. Prepare Documentation

   • Gather necessary documents: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.

5. Find a Local Partner

   • Identify a local distributor or agent to assist with logistics and regulations.

6. Arrange Shipping and Logistics

   • Choose a reliable logistics provider and manage transportation and insurance.

7. Customs Clearance

   • Ensure compliance with customs procedures and work with your local partner for smooth clearance.

8. Secure Payment and Financing

   • Establish a secure payment method and consider export insurance or financing options.

Here’s a guide on how to import goods into Bahrain:

1. Research Import Regulations

   • Understand Bahrain’s import laws and any restrictions on your products.

2. Obtain Necessary Licenses

   • Determine if your products require specific import licenses or permits.

3. Register for a Commercial Registration

   • Ensure your business is registered with the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism.

4. Classify Your Goods

   • Use the Harmonized System (HS) code to classify your goods correctly.

5. Prepare Required Documentation

   • Gather necessary documents: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and certificate of origin.

6. Find a Customs Broker

   • Hire a licensed customs broker to assist with documentation and regulations.

7. Ensure Compliance with Standards

   • Meet Bahrain’s standards and labeling requirements for your products.

8. Arrange Shipping and Logistics

   • Choose a reliable logistics provider and arrange for transportation and insurance.

9. Customs Clearance

   • Work with your customs broker to ensure smooth customs clearance.

10. Payment of Duties and Taxes

    • Calculate and pay any applicable import duties, VAT, and fees.

Key Contacts

• Bahrain Customs Affairs
  • Website: Bahrain Customs
• Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry
  • Website: Bahrain Chamber
• Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism
  • Website: Ministry of Industry

Here’s a guide on how to incorporate a company in Bahrain:

1. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of entity (e.g., Limited Liability Company – LLC).

2. Reserve a Company Name

   • Ensure the name is unique and complies with Bahraini naming rules.

3. Prepare Founding Documents

   • Draft the Memorandum and Articles of Association.

4. Apply for Commercial Registration

   • Submit the application to the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism.
   • Cost: Approximately $100 to $400 USD, depending on the business type.

5. Obtain Necessary Licenses

   • Apply for any industry-specific licenses or permits.

6. Register for Taxes

   • Obtain a Tax Identification Number from the National Bureau for Revenue.

7. Open a Bank Account

   • Open a corporate bank account in Bahrain.

8. Comply with Regulatory Requirements

   • Ensure compliance with any additional regulations.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism
  • Website: Ministry of Industry
• National Bureau for Revenue
  • Website: National Bureau for Revenue
• Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry
  • Website: Bahrain Chamber

Here’s a guide on how to set up a manufacturing plant in Bahrain:

1. Conduct a Feasibility Study

   • Analyze market demand, costs, and location benefits.

2. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of business entity (e.g., Limited Liability Company).

3. Register the Company

   • Follow the incorporation steps with the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism.

4. Select a Location

   • Choose a strategic location considering logistics, resources, and workforce availability.

5. Acquire Land and Permits

   • Purchase or lease land in an industrial zone and obtain necessary construction and environmental permits.

6. Design and Build the Facility

   • Hire architects and contractors to design and construct the plant.

7. Install Machinery and Equipment

   • Purchase and set up manufacturing equipment.

8. Hire and Train Employees

   • Recruit skilled labor and provide necessary training.

9. Ensure Compliance with Regulations

   • Adhere to safety, environmental, and labor regulations.

10. Register with Relevant Authorities

    • Obtain operational licenses and register with local and national authorities.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism
  • Website: Ministry of Industry
• Bahrain Economic Development Board
  • Website: Bahrain EDB
• Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry
  • Website: Bahrain Chamber

Here’s a guide on how to register a trademark in Bahrain:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

   • Use the Bahrain Intellectual Property Office database to ensure your trademark is unique.

2. Prepare Your Application

   • Gather details about your trademark: logo, name, and class of goods/services.

3. Submit Your Application

   • File your application with the Bahrain Intellectual Property Office.
   • Cost: Approximately $270 USD per class.

4. Examination Process

   • The office examines the application for compliance and potential conflicts.

5. Publication and Opposition

   • If approved, your trademark is published for opposition in the official gazette.

6. Opposition Period

   • Wait for a period (usually 60 days) for any oppositions. If opposed, legal proceedings may follow.

7. Registration and Issuance

   • If no opposition or once resolved, the trademark is registered, and you receive a certificate.

8. Renewal

   • Trademarks are valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely.

Key Contacts

• Bahrain Intellectual Property Office
  • Website: Bahrain IPO

Here’s a guide on resolving commercial disputes in Bahrain:

1. Negotiation

   • Attempt to resolve the dispute through direct negotiation between the parties.

2. Mediation

   • Engage a mediator to facilitate discussions and reach a voluntary agreement. This is often quicker and less costly than court proceedings.

3. Arbitration

   • If agreed upon, use arbitration for a binding resolution. Check if your contract includes an arbitration clause. Costs vary depending on the arbitrator and complexity.

4. File a Lawsuit

   • If other methods fail, file a lawsuit in the appropriate court. The Bahrain Chamber for Dispute Resolution (BCDR) handles many commercial cases.

5. Court Proceedings

   • Present evidence and arguments before the court. This process can be lengthy and costly, with legal fees depending on the case complexity.

6. Judgment

   • The court issues a judgment which can be enforced legally.

7. Appeal

   • If necessary, appeal the decision to a higher court.

Costs

• Mediation and Arbitration Fees: Vary based on the mediator/arbitrator and complexity.
• Legal Fees: Depend on the lawyer and duration of the case.
• Court Fees: Typically a filing fee based on the claim amount.

Key Contacts

• Bahrain Chamber for Dispute Resolution
  • Website: BCDR
• Bahrain Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments
  • Website: Ministry of Justice