Opportunities in the face of adversity

Haiti’s economic climate creates a tough business environment, but telecommunications company HaiTel has proved that success is possible.

Launched in March 1999, HaiTel is one of the first companies in the Caribbean to offer such a wide range of advanced cellular services, including fax, internet, international private lines and private networks. The firm, which also offers fixed line facilities, has expanded rapidly: it now has 85,000 clients and nine sale and service centers. As well as product variety, HaiTel counts modern technology, a highly educated workforce and a focus on customer needs as central to its approach.

As one of the first Haitian-owned companies and among the country’s largest private investments, Hai-Tel has been instrumental in the modernization of telecoms in Haiti – a sector which it considers essential to the country’s economic, social and cultural development. As a leader in its field, HaiTel sees itself as reflecting Haiti’s pioneering history: it was the first black nation to gain freedom from slavery and celebrates 200 years of independence in 2004.

FRANCK N. CINÉ President Directeur Général of Haitel

At the heart of HaiTel is President Directeur Général Franck N. Ciné. Having worked extensively in the United States, where he became Vice-President of U.S. operator MCI, he has used his experiences to build up the firm. “I have made this company in two years, in a very difficult environment,” he says. “HaiTel has become a reference company.”

He has an ambitious vision for the future, aiming to reach a national coverage of 500,000 clients by 2004 and enabling all social groups to benefit from HaiTel’s services. Hai-Tel also seeks to become the biggest telecoms company in the Caribbean, facilitated by Haiti’s Cari-com membership.

In addition to his domestic and regional plans, Mr. Ciné is also looking further afield, encouraging foreign investors to take a chance on Haiti which, with eight million inhabitants, represents a large market; HaiTel itself already has good relations with several overseas operators. “Haiti represents a rare op-portunity for businessmen who have a certain vision associated with a taste of risk and sucess,” says Mr. Ciné.