The Dominica Association of Industry & Commerce was formed on February 22nd 1973.

We are the leading private sector representative body in Dominica with membership across various sectors and industries.

The objectives of the Association include: fostering economic growth and social development; promoting and protecting the commercial interests of the State; representing members to Governments, including promoting, supporting or lawfully opposing such legislative or other measures as may be deemed necessary.

We have representation on various committees and boards to ensure the interests of our members are voiced.

A word

From The President

Dear Members, and Potential Members, of the Chamber of Commerce, As the President of this esteemed organization, I would like to extend my warmest welcome to every one of you. The Chamber of Commerce is an association for businesses of all sizes and industries in the private sector, and we are dedicated to pursuing economic growth and prosperity in Dominica. I would like to take a moment to recognize and thank our key stakeholders who have supported us throughout the years. Our local government officials, community leaders, local, regional, and international NGOs, the Government of Dominica and other organizations have been instrumental in helping us achieve our goals to date. Their support and collaboration have enabled us to make a positive impact on the economy and private sector. As we move forward, we must continue to work together to overcome the challenges facing our businesses. The pandemic, wars and inflation have caused unprecedented disruptions in the way we do business, and we must be adaptive and innovative in finding solutions to these challenges. At the same time, we must also look for the opportunities in our market, both existing and emerging, that once pursued, can help elevate our businesses in the private sector. The Chamber of Commerce is committed to providing our members with the tools, resources, support and insight into potential opportunities that they need to succeed. We offer a variety of programs and services, such as networking and collaboration opportunities, business advocacy, education and training programs, advertising and discovery of opportunities services to help businesses thrive. To our potential members, I urge you to join us in this mission. By becoming a member of the Chamber of Commerce, you will have access to a vast network of like-minded individuals and organizations who are dedicated to advancing the private sector. You will also have the opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of our Country. To our existing members, I want to thank you for your continued support and participation in our organization. Your commitment to the Chamber of Commerce, and the private sector by extension, is an inspiration to us all. In conclusion, I would like to reiterate our commitment to promoting economic growth and prosperity in our country. Together, we can overcome the challenges facing our businesses and create a brighter future for Dominica. Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to working with you all in the years to come. Please also feel free to reach out to us at the Chamber if there are any ways that we can be of service to you. I can be reached at 767-615-7914 or 767-275-6605 or president@dominicachamber.org.
Brenton Hilaire

President

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Introducing

New Executive Director

“I don’t want to speak solely from my position, but rather add my expertise for informed decision making and greater inclusiveness”

Welcome to the official website of the Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce.

The Dominica Association of Industry & Commerce (DAIC) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Ashma McDougall as its new Executive Director. In her role, Ms. McDougall brings a wealth of qualifications and experience that will without a doubt, deliver a host of benefits to the Chamber and its valued members.

With over a decade of experience in academia, economic research, and academic leadership, McDougall is uniquely positioned to advance the mission of the Chamber. Most recently, she served as the Director of Student Activities at Dominica State College and has been a dedicated Senior Lecturer of Economics for thirteen (13) years. Her tenure as the President of the National Youth Council of Dominica (2021 – 2023), has equipped her with invaluable skills in NGO management and advocacy, allowing her to continue to forge strong relationships with key stakeholders and provide effective leadership for the Chamber.

As a small business owner and an international development advocate, the newly appointed Executive Director understands the distinctive challenges and opportunities within the private sector landscape. McDougall is poised to lead the Chamber toward unprecedented growth and development.

“I am honoured to step into this role at such a pivotal time for our business community,” stated Ashma McDougall, the new Executive Director. “I am committed to fostering innovative resilience among local businesses and advocating for data-driven policies that will contribute to building a robust private sector ecosystem. In this pivotal role, I believe it is essential to strengthen connections and collaboration among our members to drive growth and innovation. My approach will focus on creating opportunities for engagement and partnership, ensuring that every business feels valued and supported. Together, we can build a thriving ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders”, McDougall added.

Ashma’s immediate goals include strengthening partnerships and implementing targeted initiatives that support the long-term success and vitality of our local economy. “More importantly; recognizing the critical need for evidence-based decision-making, our team is committed to utilizing comprehensive data analysis to inform and shape policy recommendations that will empower businesses, foster innovation, and stimulate sustainable economic growth. By integrating data into our recommendations, we can create more effective regulatory environments that support businesses and encourage growth”, the new Executive Director concluded.

President of the Board of Directors of the DAIC, Brenton Hilaire congratulated the new ED on her appointment and mentioned his assurance of the future of the organization. “We are pleased to welcome Ashma to our leadership team”, he stated. “Her extensive background and vision for the Chamber will undoubtedly drive positive change for our members and the broader community. We look forward to the transformative impact she will make”, Hilaire affirmed.

Ashma succeeds previous ED, Kerwin Jno Baptiste, who stepped down in July to pursue further education after serving as Executive Director since March, 2023. McDougall expresses her interest in meeting with the members in November, 2024, as she aims to bolster the efforts of the DAIC towards its stakeholders. 

“Our members are what drives us as an organization therefore, we have already initiated meetings with our membership and strive to represent their collective voice. I don’t want to speak solely from my position but rather add my expertise for informed decision making and greater inclusiveness”, McDougall declared.

Ashma McDougall

Executive Director