AmCham Haiti Attracts Record Turn Out for Inaugural Cap-Haitian Economic Forum; Young Entrepreneurs Call for More AmCham Events in the North

On March 7, 2026, AmCham Haiti brought together business leaders, public officials, entrepreneurs, development practitioners, and economic stakeholders in Cap-Haïtien for a high-level conference entitled “Cap-Haïtien: A Key Driver of Haiti’s Economic Recovery.” Held at the Hostellerie du Roi Christophe, the event served as an important platform for dialogue on the role that Haiti’s northern region can play in fostering economic growth and national development.

Moderated by economist Etzer Émile, the discussion featured a distinguished panel composed of Angie Bell, Patrick Béliard, Steeve McIntosh, Robert Paret Jr., and Christine Stephenson, each bringing unique perspectives from the fields of local governance, investment, tourism, infrastructure, and economic planning. Together, they explored the opportunities and challenges facing Cap-Haïtien and the broader Grand North region as Haiti seeks new pathways toward economic recovery.

Throughout the conference, speakers emphasized that Cap-Haïtien possesses many of the ingredients necessary to become a major economic growth center. Its strategic geographic location, rich cultural and historical heritage, tourism potential, entrepreneurial ecosystem, and proximity to key regional markets position the city as a critical hub for future investment and development. Participants agreed that strengthening regional economies will be essential to creating a more balanced and resilient national economy.

A recurring theme of the discussion was the urgent need to improve infrastructure. Panelists highlighted transportation networks, road connectivity, logistics, and urban planning as fundamental priorities for unlocking the region’s full economic potential. Improved infrastructure was identified as a key factor in attracting investment, facilitating trade, supporting tourism, and creating employment opportunities throughout the region.

The conversation also underscored the importance of empowering local entrepreneurs and ensuring that young people play an active role in the region’s development. Participants stressed that economic growth must be inclusive and accompanied by initiatives that support innovation, workforce development, and entrepreneurship. By creating opportunities for local businesses and emerging leaders, the region can build a stronger and more sustainable foundation for long-term prosperity.

Several speakers noted that substantial research, planning documents, and development studies already exist regarding Cap-Haïtien and the Grand North. The challenge today, they argued, is not a lack of vision but rather the ability to transform plans into concrete action through effective collaboration among the public sector, private sector, and development partners. Moving from planning to implementation will be critical to realizing the region’s economic potential.

The event also reinforced the growing recognition that Haiti’s economic future cannot depend exclusively on Port-au-Prince. Regional development strategies that leverage the unique strengths of cities such as Cap-Haïtien can help diversify economic activity, attract new investment, reduce regional disparities, and strengthen national resilience. Participants expressed optimism that with the right policies, investments, and partnerships, Cap-Haïtien can serve as a powerful engine for economic transformation.

Through initiatives such as this conference, AmCham Haiti continues to create spaces for meaningful dialogue around the country’s most pressing economic challenges and opportunities. By bringing together leaders from diverse sectors, the Chamber helps foster collaboration, encourage innovative thinking, and promote solutions that support sustainable economic growth throughout Haiti.