For some time now, Haiti has had a trade deficit, which means it imports more goods than it exports. In fact, the latest number show the country exported just $1.07 billion in goods but imported in $4.4 billion worth. The government has come up with a plan that will turn those numbers around. It’s turning to the agricultural, perfume and retail industries, encouraging them to produce high-quality, costly products.
Although Haiti suffers from economic instability, low wages, and poverty, its people turn out a plethora of tropical experts and factory-made clothing. What are some of Haiti’s most lucrative industry exports?
5 Made in Haiti products could capitalize on to Bolster Its Economy
Cocoa
Haiti’s cocoa industry is very profitable, and many people believe it’ll be this industry that brings life back to the economy. Cocoa grows well in shady areas, which is farms are located in the forested regions of the country. Since cocoa is thought to be “the one,” and with the “bean to bar” movement, local growers are paid decently and educated.
Coffee
Haiti’s coffee is a staple in the agricultural industry – has been for quite some time. Despite climate change and hurricanes, coffee bean growers are still adamant in raising a good crop. Haiti’s history of developing, roasting and preparing coffee is long and prosperous, and with rebuilding and sustainable processes, it will continue to be so.
Clothing
Americans who love wearing blue jeans and polo shirts may be shocked to learn that most of them were made in Haiti. Don’t think so? Check the tag. According to Jude Hervey Day, Haiti Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the country’s economy relies heavily on the textile industry with major investments being made in the sector.
While factories do offer low wages, they are still 45 percent higher than the country’s other industries (around $180 to $200 a month).
Essential Oils
Haiti’s super crop isn’t the coffee bean; it’s the vetiver plant, which is a tropical gross harvested at its root and known to produce oils that go into making European-produced perfumes. Vetiver farmers are getting much-needed assistance from investors, helping them to put into action sustainable farming practices, protection for crop production, etc.
Mangoes
When it comes to fruit, Haiti’s mango is the most important and profitable by far. Mango season starts in March and lasts until May – earlier than Mexico’s mango season. Most of the island’s mangos grow on its southern side, but as the production rises, the north may soon see mango farms popping up.
