The Importance of Mandatory Economic Partnerships in The Bahamas
By Jamal Moss
Foreign direct investment has long contributed to Bahamian economy. However, the structure of this investment has often marginalised Bahamian policymakers and citizens, limiting their influence over national economic outcomes. Bahamians increasingly recognise that genuine progress is achieved when citizens control their resources and determine their own economic future. Revisiting and strengthening investment laws would ensure that Bahamians are not passive participants in development but active decision-makers and long-term beneficiaries of economic growth.
Economic Empowerment and Ownership
Compulsory alliances would place Bahamian ownership and leadership at the centre of wealth creation. Local equity participation ensures fairer profit distribution and greater reinvestment within the domestic economy. This approach promotes generational wealth, strengthens local entrepreneurship, and reduces economic dependency. Ownership also develops managerial skills, innovation, and professional capacity among Bahamian citizens, allowing economic growth to translate into meaningful social mobility and long-term financial stability.
Keeping Wealth Within Bahamas
The primary advantage of compulsory alliances is the retention of capital within the country. Profits generated by companies operating in The Bahamas are frequently repatriated abroad, limiting their long-term national impact (Syed et al., 2012). We must be conservative and intentional with this because when Bahamians hold equity and decision-making authority in foreign-led ventures, dividends, wages, and reinvestment remain within the domestic economy. This strengthens local financial institutions, increases government revenue, supports small and medium-sized enterprises, and stimulates sustained economic activity across multiple sectors of society. It is just good common sense.
National Security and Economic Sovereignty
Economic control is closely linked to national security. When foreign interests dominate key industries, national priorities can be undermined. Bahamian participation in ownership and governance ensures that strategic decisions align with national interests, cultural values, and sustainable development goals. Local involvement also improves accountability, transparency, and resilience during global economic shocks, protecting the country from external vulnerabilities.
Ending Second-Class Economic Status
Reforming investment legislation sends a clear message that Bahamian citizens are equal stakeholders in their own economy. With a common sense approach, we will get common sense results. Mandatory partnerships promote dignity, equity, and self-determination. Bahamians understand that meaningful development occurs when citizens exercise control over their resources and economic direction. Strengthening Bahamian ownership through law will result in a more inclusive, secure, and prosperous national economy.
