The tropical island of Jamaica has a mixed, free-market economy. The country has state-owned and private enterprises. According to executiveplanet.com, the Jamaican government has pursued “a program of economic liberalization and stabilization through the removal of exchange controls, the reduction of tariffs, the stabilization of the local currency, as well as the reduction of inflation and the elimination of restrictions on foreign investments". In short, Jamaica wants to be more involved in the world market. This offers a unique opportunity to enter into business agreements and commercial contracts with Jamaican companies. To conduct business with Jamaicans, you must make an appointment. Scheduling meetings is typically simple, and morning appointments are standard. However, if the meeting is scheduled after 5pm, the meeting will usually be informal. Although Jamaicans may be late for meetings, they expect punctuality from others, especially foreigners. All you need to say hello to your Jamaican colleague is a firm handshake and eye contact. Be sure to smile and use a greeting appropriate for the time of day. Men typically pat each other on the arm during a handshake. Address people by their title (Sir, Miss, etc.) and then by their last name. Never use their name until you have been invited to do so. Jamaica has a very hot climate. This makes corporate attire very different than in the United States. Instead of wearing a business suit, khakis and golf shirts will suffice for most meetings. However, some meetings will require a more formal dress code, so be sure to bring a suit, jacket and tie just in case. Some items to bring are sunglasses, lighter cottons and linens, and a swimsuit if you're staying near the beach. Buses… middle of paper… Indeed, Jamaicans consider themselves entrepreneurial. This means that Jamaicans are open to new ideas and are willing to take risks. During your stay in Jamaica, expect to go out to dinner with your fellow Jamaicans. Although table manners in Jamaica are quite relaxed, observe others and imitate their behaviors. Don't sit down until someone tells you where you should sit, and let the host signal when to start eating. In Jamaica, continental customs are followed, i.e. the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right. It is considered bad etiquette to bring up business issues during a meal. While it's okay to order alcohol during dinner, it's considered strange to do so during lunch unless your coworkers order them first. Be careful not to drink more than two alcoholic drinks, as this could ruin your reputation and even affect the business deal.