National and foreign firms are usually welcome to bid directly for contracts with the Haitian government. The Haitian government often announces a call for bids by placing an advertisement in Haiti's major daily newspapers. The Haitian Constitution recognizes certain intellectual property rights. Article 38 provides that scientific, literary, and artistic property are protected by the law. Special manufacturers' marks, trademarks or the right to a business name should be registered with the Department of Commerce and Industry.
Haitian law provides penalties for infringement, fraud and unfair competition.
Any new discovery or invention from any industrial branch grants to its author, Haitian or foreigner, the exclusive right for use as established by the title or patent delivered by the government. Any manufacturer, businessperson, merchant, or company is entitled to register a trademark for his product. Poor enforcement significantly erodes protection offered by IPR legislation. Moreover, Haiti's weak judicial system makes it difficult to obtain a remedy in cases of copyright infringement. Need for a Local Attorney Counseling from a local attorney is recommended for foreigners doing business in Haiti.