Haiti’s Agri-Business Environment

• Haiti is currently undergoing a period of redevelopment which is creating lucrative opportunities for investment. Its strategic location, large workforce of young adults, pro-business government and support from the international community have positioned the country for future growth and development.   
• The agri-business sector in Haiti is one of significant importance and growth potential for the economy. Haiti is currently experiencing strong domestic demand and has significant potential to expand into export markets. Its close proximity to the US and Caribbean countries ensures that products get to markets quickly. The country is also an ACP (African, Caribbean and Pacific) member and has duty-free and quota-free preferential access to the European Union markets for most products. Haiti’s free access to international markets is also facilitated by Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and the Bali Accord.
• There are no in-country cocoa pests or diseases, and so Haitian criollo cocoa beans are cultivated without chemical additives. These beans are highly prized for their exceptional flavor by pastry companies and high-end chocolatiers of luxury chocolate brands. As leading food companies are committed to sourcing their cocoa from sustainable producers, and craft chocolate makers are seeking new sources of fine and aromatic cocoa, niche markets that Haiti’s organic cocoa can serve will continue to expand. Currently, most beans grown in Haiti are sold and exported in a raw, unprocessed and unfermented state. Expansions of enterprises such as Les Chocolateries Askanya, represent a move up the value chain and take advantage of a significant opportunity.

Haiti offers a wide range of incentives to investors in the agri-business sector. Under the 2002 Investment Code, qualifying businesses may benefit from a tax holiday on the corporation tax and all local taxes other than the Patent for up to 15 years. Certain capital investments also qualify for accelerated depreciation for tax purposes. For agricultural investments there are a number of exemptions and incentives including:

• Exemption from payroll taxes and all other direct internal taxes for a period, which shall not exceed 15 years.
• Exemption from the security deposit provided for by the Customs Tariff Code for temporary entry imports.
• Customs duty and tax relief on import of equipment goods and materials necessary for the establishment and operations of the enterprise, including: 1) Tractors, two-wheel tractors, fishing boats and outboard motors and any other equipment necessary for the enterprise’s operations, 2) Seed, fry, fertilizer, pesticides, plants, fungicides and all other agriculture, stockbreeding and fishing inputs 3) Nets, traps and other fishing equipment 4) Devices and equipment used in the construction of hothouses, incubators for the production of poultry, 5) Spare parts and tools used in equipment maintenance, 6) Post-harvest machines, tools and equipment such as gins, pulpers, grain threshing machines, 7) Packaging, preserving and processing materials and all equipment deemed necessary in company production.