Using an Agent or Distributor

Foreign companies often make use of local agents or distributors to sell their products on the Surinamese market. Paramaribo, the capital, is the site of the Nieuwe Haven Port, which serves as the primary entry point for imports into Suriname. 

The Commercial Assistant at the United States Embassy in Suriname can help identify local distributors and can be reached by e-mail at:  surinamebusinessinfo@state.gov. 

Establishing an Office

The law requires that all businesses in Suriname with the exception of public enterprises and enterprises conducting agriculture, horticulture, fishing, or hunting exclusively be registered at the Trade Register of the Chamber of Commerce (KKF). Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), societies, foundations, and enterprises belonging to minors are exempt. Foreign companies establishing offices in Suriname are considered branch offices and are also required to register with the KKF.  The following documents are required for registration: 

 · A complete registration application from the Chamber of Commerce which indicates where        the company’s head office is located; 

· A letter of appointment (proxy) on behalf of the local representative (branch manager); 

· A passport photo of the local representative and a copy of his/her passport; 

· A copy of the license from the Ministry of Trade and Industry, if carrying out activities 

  requiring a license.  

Registration must be executed during the week prior or the week immediately after the actual commencement of business activities. 

Suriname Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KKF) 

Telephone: (597) 530-311 

Fax: (597) 437-971  

Email: chamber@sr.net 

A local notary’s assent is needed to ratify a company by law at the time of registration with the Chamber of Commerce. For non-residents, the notary also sends a request to the foreign exchange commission for approval. Applicants must also obtain a tax number at the registration office of the tax department. 

For the latest Investment Climate Statement (ICS) which includes information on investment and business environments in foreign economies pertinent to establishing and operating an office and to hiring employees, visit the U.S. Department of Department of State’s Investment Climate Statements website.

Franchising

Franchise opportunities range from soft-drink distributors to fast-food restaurants and hotel chains.  Most franchises are from the United States. There are no specific franchise requirements in the market.

Direct Marketing

Direct marketing is used to market products in Suriname. Local companies market directly through e-mail, Facebook advertisements, brochures, and advertisements to clients and potential customers.

Joint Ventures/Licensing

There is no legal requirement that foreign investors or businesspeople engage in joint ventures to access the Surinamese market. Local entrepreneurs are showing increasing interest in manufacturing licensing agreements. A number of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have entered into licensing agreements to produce end products (e.g. PVC panels) in Suriname.

Express Delivery

Express delivery companies with offices in Suriname include FedEx, UPS, and DHL. Envelopes (documents) and small parcels such as study supplies and items not for resale, with the exception of electronics, are delivered to the door of the recipient. Typical time to get express delivery from the United States is three to five days. 

Due Diligence

U.S. investors or companies planning to open a business or buy property in Suriname may want to seek the services of a lawyer and notary to assist with filings, registrations, licenses, or legal paperwork due to possible language barriers. 

Business owners should also take care to register trademarks with the Attorney General’s Office. This can be done directly by the business owner. 

Prospective investors should check a local partner’s background and the legal status of a property before completing a business transaction. 

The Suriname Chamber of Commerce and Industry can provide general information, such as the names of registered company owners and business resources.