Includes typical use of agents and distributors and how to find a good partner, e.g., whether use of an agent or distributor is legally required.

The most efficient and generally effective means for U.S. exporters to conduct business in Bermuda is through a wholesale distributor, of which there are more than thirty on the island.  Wholesalers distribute groceries (fresh, frozen, and dry), health and beauty products, pharmaceuticals, food service supplies and equipment, and other products.
 
To find a partner to assist with shipping needs, contact Bermuda Consumer Affairs at www.ca.gov.bm, the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce at www.bermudacommerce.com, or the Economic/Commercial section of the U.S. Consulate General Hamilton at http://hamilton.usconsulate.gov, or visit the Bermuda Yellow pages at www.bermudayp.com.   Note: U.S. businesses can export construction materials directly to Bermuda without going through a wholesaler.  For information, potential exporters should contact local construction firms or the Construction Association of Bermuda (www.constructionbermuda.com).
 
A salesperson’s permit is an alternative to engaging a wholesale distributor.  Non-Bermudians may not sell or promote products on behalf of an overseas agent or business until the Department of Immigration grants permission to do so.  The Chamber of Commerce screens each application for a salesperson’s permit to determine if a product is already represented by a Bermudian company and whether the permit will threaten that company‘s interests.  If that is the case, the Chamber will not submit the application for a salesperson’s permit to Immigration.   If a product is unavailable locally, the Chamber selects Bermudian companies that might have an interest in the product and sets up appointments for the visiting salesperson.  Sales representatives are permitted entry on a case-by-case basis.  There are two classes of permits: a) a sole agent’s permit for those who are sponsored by a local agent, and b) a sole agent’s permit for those who are without a local agent.
 
For more information on the salesperson’s permit, please contact the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce at https://www.bermudachamber.bm.   Please note that the Department of Immigration closely monitors travel into Bermuda for the purpose of business and requires that proper documentation (i.e. work permit, salesperson’s permit) be issued prior to entry into Bermuda.

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.