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Country Guide > Caribbean > St Lucia | |
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Business Profile Economy St Lucia’s economy still relies heavily on agriculture but has broadened during the last 15 years. Light industry has been a key part of this process: the establishment of export processing zones and the successful attraction of foreign investment has created a healthy sector producing plastic, textiles and industrial gases and assembling electronic components. There is also a significant construction industry. The main agricultural exports are bananas, coconuts and cocoa. The Government is focusing its efforts on further diversification, principally directed towards the creation of a service sector based on tourism and financial services. It has also effected various deregulation measures and privatisation of a number of major state-owned enterprises. St Lucia is a member of the regional trading bloc, CARICOM, and the region’s principal political co-operative grouping, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States. The USA and the UK are the main trading partners, the USA for imports and the UK for exports. Business Short- or long-sleeved shirt and tie or a light-weight suit are suitable for most business visits. Office hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1630, Sat 0830-1230. Commercial Information The following organisation can offer advice: St Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, PO Box 482, Vide Bouteille, Castries (tel: 452 3165 or 453 1540; fax: 453 6907; e-mail: info@stluciachamber.org; website: www.stluciachamber.org). Conferences/Conventions A number of hotels offer conference and back-up facilities, with seating for up to 200 persons. The St Lucia Tourist Board can provide details. For further information, contact Solar Tours and Travel, 20 Bridge Street, PO Box 1519, Castries (tel: 452 5898; fax: 452 5428; e-mail: solartours@candw.lc; website: www.solartoursandtravel.com). |