Banking Compliance Regulations in Sao Tome and Principe: A Guide for U.S. Businesses

Overview of the Banking System

Sao Tome and Principe’s banking system is comprised of eight private commercial banks, with ownership and management interests represented by various entities from Portugal, Angola, Nigeria, Cameroon, Togo, and the country itself.

Key Features of the Banking System

• Eight private commercial banks operating in the country
• Retail banking and corporate services offered by these institutions
• Most corporate services can be sourced from abroad if needed

Credit Availability and Liquidity

Local credit is limited and expensive but accessible to both foreign and domestic investors on equal terms. However, the country’s major economic actors finance themselves externally rather than relying on local banks.

Key Facts about Credit and Liquidity

• Limited local credit availability
• Expensive credit options
• Excess liquidity transferred to correspondent banks outside the region by commercial banks

Resources for U.S. Businesses

The U.S. Commercial Service can assist American businesses in navigating Sao Tome and Principe’s banking landscape and identifying potential opportunities.

How the U.S. Commercial Service Can Help

• International marketing expertise
• Global presence to help companies expand their reach worldwide
• Network of 108 offices across the United States and over 75 countries

Getting Started with the U.S. Commercial Service

Interested parties can locate the nearest U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist through http://export.gov/usoffices.