Doing Business with Haiti

Exporting to Haiti involves several key steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Research Market Requirements

   • Understand Haiti’s import regulations and standards for your product.
   • Check for any product-specific certifications needed.

2. Identify Local Partners

   • Establish relationships with local distributors or agents in Haiti.

3. Prepare Export Documentation

   • Include commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin.
   • Ensure compliance with labeling and packaging requirements.

4. Arrange Logistics and Shipping

   • Choose a reliable shipping company experienced with exports to Haiti.
   • Ensure accurate completion of shipping documents, such as bills of lading.

5. Customs Declaration

   • Work with a customs broker to facilitate the clearance process.
   • Pay any necessary duties and taxes.

6. Understand Duties and Taxes

   • Familiarize yourself with Haiti’s import duties and applicable taxes.

7. Distribution and Sales

   • Establish distribution channels within Haiti.
   • Consider partnerships with local businesses for effective market penetration.

Key Contacts

• Haitian Customs Administration
  • Website: Haitian Customs
• Ministry of Commerce and Industry
  • Website: Ministry of Commerce and Industry

Importing goods into Haiti involves several steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Verify Import Regulations

   • Ensure your goods comply with Haiti’s import regulations.
   • Check if products require specific permits or certifications.

2. Classify Your Goods

   • Determine the correct tariff classification using the Harmonized System (HS) codes.

3. Obtain Necessary Licenses

   • Apply for any required import licenses or permits for specific goods.

4. Prepare Import Documentation

   • Necessary documents include commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin.

5. Arrange Shipping and Logistics

   • Choose a reliable logistics provider experienced with imports to Haiti.
   • Ensure proper packaging and labeling of goods.

6. Customs Declaration

   • Submit a customs declaration to Haitian customs authorities.
   • Pay any applicable duties and taxes.

7. Customs Clearance

   • Work with a customs broker to facilitate clearance if needed.
   • Ensure compliance with all import requirements.

8. Receive Goods

   • Coordinate with your logistics provider to receive and inspect goods upon arrival.

Key Contacts

• Haitian Customs Administration
  • Website: Haitian Customs
• Ministry of Commerce and Industry
  • Website: Ministry of Commerce and Industry

Incorporating a company in Haiti involves several steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Choose a Company Type

   • Decide between types such as Société Anonyme (SA) or Société à Responsabilité Limitée (SARL).

2. Reserve a Company Name

   • Ensure the name is unique and complies with Haitian regulations.

3. Prepare Incorporation Documents

   • Draft the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws.
   • Include details such as company objectives, directors, and shareholders.

4. Notarize Documents

   • Have the incorporation documents notarized by a Haitian notary public.

5. Register the Company

   • Submit documents to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry for registration.
   • Obtain a fiscal identification number from the Direction Générale des Impôts (DGI).

6. Pay Registration Fees

   • Fees vary but generally include a fixed amount for registration and notary services.

7. Publish in the Official Journal

   • Announce the incorporation in the official gazette, “Le Moniteur.”

8. Open a Corporate Bank Account

   • Use incorporation documents to open a business account.

Costs

• Notarization Fees: Vary depending on the notary.
• Registration Fees: Typically a few hundred USD.
• Publication Fees: Cost for publishing in “Le Moniteur.”

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Commerce and Industry
  • Ministry of Commerce and Industry
• Direction Générale des Impôts (DGI)
  • DGI

Registering a trademark in Haiti involves several steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

   • Ensure your trademark is unique and not already registered. Use available databases or consult a local attorney.

2. Prepare Your Application

   • Include details such as the trademark design, classification of goods/services, and applicant information.

3. Submit the Application

   • File your application with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI).

4. Pay the Application Fee

   • Fees vary based on classification; check with MCI for current rates.

5. Examination Process

   • The office examines the application for compliance and potential conflicts. Respond to any objections or requests for additional information.

6. Publication and Opposition

   • If approved, the trademark is published in the official gazette. A period is provided for third parties to oppose the registration.

7. Registration and Certification

   • If no oppositions arise, the trademark is registered. Pay the final registration fee and receive the Certificate of Registration.

8. Maintain and Renew the Trademark

   • Trademarks are valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely. Submit renewal applications to maintain protection.

Costs

• Application Fee: Varies; consult MCI for specific details.
• Registration Fee: Additional fees apply upon successful registration.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI)
  • Website: Ministry of Commerce and Industry

Registering a trademark in Haiti involves several steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

   • Ensure your trademark is unique and not already registered.
   • Use the database at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

2. Prepare Your Application

   • Include details such as the trademark design, classification of goods/services, and applicant information.

3. Submit Your Application

   • File the application with the Haitian Industrial Property Office.
   • Applications can be submitted in person or via mail.

4. Pay the Application Fee

   • Fees vary; contact the relevant office for the latest costs.

5. Examination Process

   • The office reviews the application for compliance and potential conflicts.
   • Respond promptly to any objections or requests for additional information.
6. Publication and Opposition
   • If approved, the trademark is published for opposition. There is a period for third parties to challenge the registration.

7. Registration and Certification

   • If no oppositions arise, the trademark is registered. You will receive a certificate of registration.

8. Maintain and Renew the Trademark

   • Trademarks are valid for 10 years and can be renewed. Submit renewal applications before expiry to maintain protection.

Costs

• Application Fees: Contact the Haitian Industrial Property Office for specific costs.
• Legal Fees: If using an attorney, costs will vary based on services.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Commerce and Industry
  • Website: Ministry of Commerce and Industry

Resolving commercial disputes in Haiti involves several steps. Here’s a guide on the process:

1. Attempt Negotiation

   • Begin by negotiating directly with the other party to find an amicable solution.

2. Mediation

   • Engage a mediator to facilitate discussions.
   • Mediation is often quicker and less formal than court proceedings.

3. Arbitration

   • Consider arbitration for a private and binding resolution.
   • Provides a structured approach with enforceable decisions.

4. Seek Legal Advice

   • Consult with a lawyer specializing in commercial law for guidance on your case.

5. File a Lawsuit

   • If other methods fail, file a lawsuit in the appropriate commercial court.
   • Prepare necessary documentation and evidence.

6. Court Proceedings

   • Attend hearings and present your case.
   • Follow the legal procedures as guided by your attorney.

7. Judgment and Enforcement

   • If a judgment is made, ensure its enforcement through legal channels.

Costs

• Mediation and Arbitration Fees: Vary depending on the service provider.
• Court Filing Fees: Depend on the jurisdiction and case type; consult local courts.
• Legal Fees: Vary based on the lawyer and complexity of the case.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Justice and Public Security
  • Website: Ministry of Justice and Public Security

When considering doing business in Haiti, various social, cultural, political, and economic factors must be taken into account.

Social and Cultural Factors

• Language: Haitian Creole and French are the official languages. Understanding local language and culture is crucial.
• Community Relations: Building strong relationships with local communities can enhance business success.

Political Factors

• Government Structure: Haiti is a semi-presidential republic. Political stability can vary.
• Investment Incentives: The government offers incentives for foreign investment, especially in key sectors.

Economic Factors

• Developing Economy: Haiti is working to improve its economic infrastructure, with opportunities in various sectors.
• Foreign Exchange: The Haitian gourde (HTG) is the official currency. Be aware of exchange rate fluctuations.

Rule of Law

• Legal Framework: Haiti’s legal system is based on the Napoleonic Code. Understanding local laws and regulations is essential.
• Judiciary: The judiciary operates independently, but processes can sometimes be slow.

Business Environment

• Infrastructure: Infrastructure development is ongoing, impacting logistics and operations.
• Workforce: Haiti has a young and growing workforce, though skill levels may vary.

Key Contacts

• Haitian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
  • Website: Haitian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
• Ministry of Commerce and Industry
  • Website: Ministry of Commerce and Industry
• Central Bank of Haiti
  • Website: Central Bank of Haiti