What types of business are reserved for Bahamians?
Generally the fields of real estate, publishing, nightclubs and restaurants, construction, building supply, security, wholesale and retail operations, import and export trade, fishing, auto and appliance repair, public transportation and cosmetic and beauty establishments are reserved for Bahamians. There are some exceptions, however. What business incentives apply? There are several government initiatives, including legislation that provides exemptions on customs duty on building materials, equipment, manufacturing supplies, some raw materials and deferral of property taxes. More specifically, the Hotels Encouragement Act, Export Manufacturing Industries Encouragement Act, Agricultural Manufactories Act, Spirits and Beer Manufacture Act, Family Island Development Encouragement Act and Industries Encouragement Act, are designed to help foreign investors. Additionally, several international preferential trade agreements are in place to aid investors. These include the Caribbean Basin In
