Includes typical use of agents and distributors and how to find a good partner, e.g., whether use of an agent or distributor is legally required.
Last Published: 7/8/2019

Although the use of an agent or distributor is not required, it is highly recommended.  A strong local representative can place product and generate sales that otherwise may not materialize.

The U.S. Department of Commerce, through its U.S. Commercial Service Caribbean Regional Office in the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, can help U.S. exporters find agents and distributors through the following fee-based services:

•              International Partner Search (IPS): This service helps U.S. companies find local partners and licensees abroad. The International Partnership Search provides a report on up to five qualified overseas agents, distributors, manufacturer's representatives, joint venture partners, licensees, franchisees, or strategic partners who have examined a U.S. company's materials and have expressed an interest in the company's products, services, or licenses, or have expressed an interest in otherwise partnering with the company. 

•              International Company Profile (ICS):  This service consists of a background report on a prospective international buyer or partner.  This report includes information on the company’s management, operating history, and an assessment of the competitiveness of your product or service and the strength of the industry in your target market.

•              Gold Key Service (GKS): This service consists of a survey of potential representatives or customers based on the client's requirements, as well as 4 – 6 pre-arranged appointments per day with these prospects.  It also includes a welcome kit, hotel reservations (at preferential rates), escort to appointments by the Economic Officer or Commercial Specialist, a car with driver, and complimentary office space (if requested).

Please contact your local Export Assistance Center of the U.S. Department of Commerce, the U.S. Commercial Service Caribbean Regional Office in the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic (Tel: 809-567-7775 ext. 7249, E-mail: office.santodomingo@trade.gov), or the Political Economic/Commercial Section in the U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados: (Tel: 246-227-4052, Email: BridgetownPolEcon@state.gov) for further information on these services.

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.