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 trade partners: France, Germany, Guadeloupe, Italy, Venezuela and USA.

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 per cent of Martinique’s foreign trade, with the remainder of the import market captured by the major EU economies and the USA.

Lightweight suits and safari 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.

Facilities for business conferences are available at the Palais des Congrès Convention Centre.

Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie de la Martinique
BP 478, 50 rue Ernest Deproge, 97241 Fort-de-France, Martinique
Tel: 552 800.
Website: www.martinique.cci.fr

Palais des Congrès (Convention Centre)
Schoelcher Commune, Madiana, Martinique
Tel: 721 515.