Doing Business with Haiti

A comprehensive guide to doing business, exporting, investing, and manufacturing in Haiti.

Foreign Direct Investment with the International Trade Council / Company Incorporation / Company Formation

Albanian Investment Development Agency

Tel: +355 42 251 001
Email: info@aida.gov.al
Web: www.aida.gov.al

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General Directorate of Customs

Albania General Directorate of Customs - International Trade Council

 

Tel: +355 42 253 820
Email: helpdesk.dpd@dogana.gov.al
Web: www.dogana.gov.al

National Chamber of Commerce

Albanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Albanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry - International Trade Council

Tel: +355 45 800 932
Email: cci.tirana@cci.al
Web: www.cci.al

Ministry of Economy Information from the International Trade Council - a Peak-body - international chamber of commerce

Ministry of Finance and Economy, Albania

  • Type of Government: Semi-presidential republic
  • Population: Approximately 11.5 million
  • GDP: Around $14 billion USD
  • Corporate Tax Rate: 30%
  • Personal Income Tax Rate: 10% to 30%
  • Major Exports: Apparel, essential oils, cocoa, mangoes
  • Major Imports: Food, manufactured goods, machinery, fuel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Members Include Leading Organizations in Haiti

Ask our Experts on Doing Business in/with Haiti

If you’re looking to do business or invest in Haiti, we can provide expert guidance, market insights, and valuable connections to help you navigate the local landscape. Contact us today to discover how we can assist in making your venture a success.