Discusses opportunities for U.S. franchisers and legal requirements in the market.
Last Published: 7/8/2019

The government of Barbados is open to investment by franchises. There has been some noticeable improvement in the franchise environment on the island. Franchises such as Burger King, Payless Shoe Source, and Subway acquired licenses and are currently open for business.  Some opportunities also exist for franchises in travel and tourism, beauty and health, entertainment, education, management and human resources services, and other non-food franchises.  The Barbados Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs evaluates the potential competitive impact on non-franchised local businesses and must approve all franchises.  Franchise holders pay an initial registration fee of $5,000 and annual renewal fees of $1,000.  All franchises must be registered with the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs in order to operate legally and repatriate profits and capital.  Process franchises, such as those used in manufacturing or designs, must also be registered so that royalties can be remitted abroad.

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.