The Real Story behind Job & Investment in Haiti

Many still consider investment in Haiti is a risky proposition. Political climate is not favorable, enacting new law in the country is almost impossible, transparency is rare, cost of transportation and energy is too high, goods remain static in the customs unnecessarily, ports are not work-efficient, and there are many more displeasing reasons.

The current administration, as a measure to get the country moving forward, has set many programs to attract foreign investment. Since the devastating earthquake in 2010, the country has emphasized foreign investment over foreign aids and relief. The Center for Facilitation of Investment (CFI) was established by a presidential decree back in January 2006. This is distinct from an investment bank, it is an agency that facilitates investments. The government has set to offer tax holiday or income tax exemption for 15 years to certain businesses in the country.

Presently, CFI is working efficiently to attract foreign investment with a catch phrase "Haiti is Open for Business" with endorsement from some of biggest Haitian friends like former US President, Bill Clinton. However, it is often felt that CFI is more focused on big international investors; its message has failed to reach a greater part of Haitian Diaspora and small investors within the country who might have interest to do business in the country. Moreover, the earlier initial registration charge of $2500 initiated by CFI as "One Click Business" was considered relatively high by many investors.

However, it is too early to judge the strategy taken by a state that has just opened up for investment.

Reply to this article

Read more: economy, Investment, Job, Employment, Transparency, Business & Finance

« World Bank Di Bagay yo pa Klè ak Lajan Luil Venezuela-sa! | Main | Haiti finance minister, Marie Carmelle Jean-Marie, resigns »

Return to Articles List

Our objective is to share with you news and information about Haiti and the people of Haiti. Traditions, habits and the way we were  or  grew are alive in this site. We highly recommend that you Subscribe to our Newsletter and also share with us some of the things that are memorable and made us unique people.