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.

While not legally required, it is advisable for foreign firms to retain a representative in Chad to help navigate the Chadian market.  A local agent should be fluent in French and possess thorough knowledge of the local economy.  Chadian Arabic is also helpful.  For products requiring maintenance, it is important for an agent to ensure after-sales support and to stock a reasonable supply of spare parts.  Local agents/distributors are not exclusive and carry many product lines, but they may sometimes request exclusive distribution rights. 

Contact your U.S. Department of Commerce district office to inquire about the Agents Distributor Service (ADS).  If Commerce records do not already contain suitable prospects, the office will ask the U.S. Embassy in N’Djamena for support.  For further information, exporters may contact the Department of Commerce at 1-800-USA-TRADE (1-800-872-8723) and www.usatrade.gov. 
 

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.