Small Farms to Plantations |
From the 17th century until well into the 19th century, Barbados remained a largely agricultural based economy. Following settlement in 1627 until the mid 1640s, small farming became the largest source of employment. --Read More |
Diversification |
After centuries of Barbados’s dependence on sugar earnings, sugar is no longer the chief source of employment or the main foreign exchange earner. However, the move away from sugar as the largest employer and main foreign exchange earner was a gradual one.--- Read More |
Light Manufacturing |
From the 1940s Barbados began to manufacture soap, edible oils, margarine and lard. The country also started manufacturing soft drinks (soda), beer, confectionery, and biscuits (crackers) for local consumption and export.--Read More |
Fisheries |
The fishing industry, while not a major employer, is still an economic asset to the Barbados's economy providing millions of dollars in annual revenue to the island's economy. Flying fish (Hirundichthys affinis) is the most important catch. The second most important catch is dolphin fish (Coryphaena hippurus). Kingfish tuna and billfish are also caught and processed. These fish are available fresh and frozen for local consumption and for export. |
Tourism Development |
In 1952, the Barbados Hotel Association (BHA) a private association was formed and this association was later renamed The Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association. In 1957, the Barbados Board of Tourism was created and its exclusive task was the development of the tourist sector and the promotion of tourism. By the early 1980s, the number of tourists who visited the island exceeded its population. Today tourism has become the largest foreign exchange earner and employer, while light manufacturing and services continue to provide a source of employment and revenue for some of the island’s work force. |
Business Today |
Today, Barbadian business covers a broad spectrum of services, international business services, and information communication and technology services, international financial services, and international marketing, e-commerce and conference services.
Information on the business environment and investment opportunities in Barbados can be found by contacting the following organizations:
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