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Business Profile
Economy: Djibouti’s economic output fell by one third during the 1990s through internal problems and, more importantly, the wider upheaval in the Horn of Africa. Little of the mainly desert land will support crops and agriculture is therefore concentrated in livestock-rearing which is mostly conducted by nomadic tribes. There is a small industrial sector confined to light manufacturing of locally consumed products. Djibouti’s economic potential lies in the development of its service sector; in particular, transport facilities and banking. The deep-water port on the Bab-El-Mandeb Straits, which has developed as a major re-fuelling and transhipment facility, is vitally important to the country, as it is on the major oil route between the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea. In addition, the Government hopes to develop Djibouti as a general trading centre between Africa and the Middle East and as an important telecommunications hub for the region. However, at present, the country remains dependent on foreign aid, the bulk of which comes from France and Saudi Arabia. Unemployment, which affects perhaps half the workforce, is a particular problem. The country’s main trading partners are France, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, Somalia, Yemen and Thailand.
Business: Suits should be worn. French and Arabic are the main languages used in business. As there are few, if any, interpreter services of note, a knowledge of either of these languages is essential. Business entertainment will often take place in hotels or restaurants. Office hours: Sat-Thurs 0620-1300.
Commercial Information: The following organisation can offer advice: Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie de Djibouti, BP 84, Djibouti (tel: 351 070 or 350 826; fax: 350 096; e-mail: cicid@intnet.dj; website: www.intnet.dj/cicid).
Conferences/Conventions: Information can be obtained from the Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie de Djibouti (see address above).
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