Provides advice on how to perform due diligence and in what areas it is necessary for a U.S. company. Includes information on the U.S. Commercial Service International Company Profile service.

Performing due diligence in Guatemala can be challenging and time-consuming. There are very few sources of independently verifiable information about companies and individuals. Guatemalan companies are not publicly-listed and they rarely publish information regarding officers, sales or financials.  Most companies are sole proprietorships and partnerships, and business is generally conducted based on personal reputation and contacts.

Companies should request bank and trade references from potential agents and customers.  Companies should also consult their own U.S. banks for information on Guatemalan banks, most of which have correspondent banking relationships with banks in Florida.

The U.S. Commercial Service in Guatemala offers an International Company Profile report to U.S. companies, in which in depth information about the local Guatemalan company may be obtained, depending on the source availability.  For more information, please refer to:
export.gov/guatemala/servicesforu.s.companies/index.asp

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.