Martinique: Doing business and staying in touch

Doing Business in Martinique

Lightweight suits are recommended. The best time to visit is January to March and June to September. A command of French is essential, as most of the island's business is connected with France.

Office Hours

Mon-Fri 0800-1200 and 1400-1800.

Economy

In the agricultural sector, sugar cane and bananas are the main cash crops; a range of fruit is also grown for domestic consumption and export. Cut flowers have also become an important export earner. The processing of agricultural goods and refining of imported oil (which is also the main source of energy) are the island's main industries.

The most important part of the economy is tourism, both as a major employer and a vital source of foreign exchange - worth some US$400 million a year to the economy. Martinique also enjoys substantial material benefits from being an integral part of the French nation, receiving financial support both from Paris and the EU. France accounts for more than 75% of Martinique's foreign trade, with the remainder of the import market captured by the major EU economies and the USA.
Facilities for business conferences are available at the Palais des Congrès Convention Centre.

GDP

US$37 million.

Main exports

Petroleum products, bananas, sugar, cut flowers, rum and pineapples.

Main imports

Petroleum products, crude oil, foodstuffs, construction materials, vehicles, clothing and other consumer goods.

Main trading partners

France, Germany, Guadeloupe, Italy, Venezuela and USA.

Keeping in Touch in Martinique

Telephone

There are both payphones and card phones on the island. Télécartes (phonecards) are sold at post offices, newsagents and kiosks. There are only card phones at the airport.

Mobile Phone

Roaming agreements exist with international mobile phone companies. Coverage extends throughout the French Antilles and in French Guiana.

Internet

There are a few Internet cafes in Martinique, predominantly in the cities such as Fort de France and main tourist areas.

Media

TV and radio services are provided by the French public overseas broadcaster, RFO, and by private operators.

Post

Letters take about a week to reach Europe.

Mon-Fri 0700-1800 and Saturday mornings.