These figures have risen steadily in recent years and are expected to continue to do so. The Nicaraguan retail market is relatively small, with no truly large-scale department stores or other retail operations. We recommend that U.S. companies market their goods via a local agent or distributor. Potential investors should consider taking on a Nicaraguan partner. The Nicaraguan government maintains a pro-foreign investment policy.
Nicaraguan consumers maintain a decided bias in favor of American products and U.S.-style services.
U.S. goods are sought after by local consumers, who view the products as high quality. Many Nicaraguans have traveled to the U.S. and several hundred thousand lived in the U.S. during the 1980's Sandinista era. Best investment opportunities exist in export-oriented manufacturing, fisheries, tourism, mining, and agriculture. Several large infrastructure projects are under way in the areas of electrical generation, roadbuilding, and water system construction. The legal system is cumbersome.