Welcome to the 10th Forum of the Greater Caribbean

Welcome Remarks by the Private Sector

The 10th Business Forum of the Greater Caribbean, which will be held in Haiti from 21st to 24th October, 2009, marks the dawn of a new era. The hosting of this very important event reveals a new perception of Haiti in the international arena. It constitutes a break with the image of a chaotic and ungovernable space, as it is presented in the classification of international rating agencies, to be considered an environment that is conducive to business.

This result is the fruit of a declared will and continuous efforts on the part of the public and private sectors.

Firm and resolute measures implemented by Government to combat violence, kidnapping and drugs have significantly reduced insecurity and assisted in restoring a state of normalcy to everyday life. The resumption of night life in the country is an indicator of this change. The significant increase in visitor arrivals is proof of the confidence placed in the country, as evidenced by the high rate of hotel occupancy.

The options provided by political leaders, attesting to improved governance, have reassured partners. The national strategy document for growth and poverty reduction (DSNCRP) translates the will of the Government to implement a coherent and well articulated programme in the medium term, to achieve the objectives of economic growth, employment and poverty reduction. The sectors that serve as the basis for this strategy area are clearly identified: Agriculture and rural development, tourism and infrastructure. Macroeconomic performance resulting from exemplary fiscal and financial discipline has created a stable environment for public and private investments.

The private business sector takes delight in exogenous factors that are expected to have a positive impact on the investment climate of the country. The lifting or mitigating of advisories against Haiti by Canada and the United States respectively heralds new business relations with those countries. The recent hosting of international conferences by Haiti, particularly the meeting of Governors of the IDB and the Meeting of Governors of the CARICOM Central Bank is further evidence of a change in the perception of the country in the areas of security and governance. The Hope Law, which allows for preferential access of textile products from Haiti to the American market, remains an asset to business development. Several persons of foreign origin, both from the Caribbean and other regions, are poised to take advantage of the opportunities to be derived from this agreement. Significant results in terms of jobs and revenue are expected.

The Public-Private Partnership, which for a long time was merely the subject of discussion, is becoming a reality as a result of the participative approach characterising various Government-led initiatives.

Réginal Boulos
President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Haiti