Dominica Travel Guide

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Statistics

•GDP: US$364 million (2008).
• Main exports: Bananas, soap, coconuts, grapefruit and galvanized sheets.
• Main imports: Food, live animals, machinery, transport and mineral fuels.
• Main trade partners: UK, USA, Canada, Japan, Barbados and Guadeloupe.

Economy

Vast areas of the island remain under cultivation, with bananas, coconuts, citrus fruits and cocoa the main crops. As the country's prime export sector, the banana industry has suffered market strain since a World Trade Organization outlawed previously enjoyed preferential access to key European markets.

To counterbalance any negative impact on economy, the government has made great efforts to diversify the country's pecuniary base. Tourism is seen as the sector with greatest promise, though this has been slower to flourish than in other areas of the Caribbean. The offshore financial services industry has also been actively promoted world-wide. However, in a highly competitive market, success has been limited.

At present there is a little light industry producing vegetable oil, canned juices, cigarettes, soap and other consumer goods largely for domestic consumption.

Dominica is a member of the Caribbean economic bloc CARICOM and of the Organization of East Caribbean States.

Business Etiquette

Businesspeople should dress smartly, in lightweight clothing. Dealings tend to be formal, initially at least. Punctuality is expected.

Government office hours: Mon 0800-1300 and 1400-1700, Tues-Fri 0800-1300 and 1400-1600.

Business Contacts

Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce (DAIC)
PO Box 85, 6 Cross Lane, Roseau, Dominica (Commonwealth of)
E-mail: daic@marpin.dm