Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Business, Trade and Energy of Dominica

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Business, Trade and Energy holds one of the most strategically important cabinet portfolios in the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica. As of December 2022, this role is held by Honourable Dr. Vince Henderson, a seasoned diplomat and parliamentarian. The ministry’s mandate is to position Dominica on the global stage while securing international partnerships that foster national growth, energy sustainability, and business competitiveness.

Role and Institutional Overview

This ministry combines foreign diplomacy, trade facilitation, business development, and energy governance under a unified structure. It is responsible for maintaining bilateral and multilateral relationships, participating in international organizations, and negotiating regional trade frameworks. It also works in close partnership with the Invest Dominica Authority (IDA), Dominica Geothermal Development Project, and other state bodies to meet the demands of a globally connected, resilient island economy.

Responsibilities of the Minister

The responsibilities of the Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Business, Trade and Energy span diplomacy, investment promotion, trade facilitation, and sustainable energy development across multiple sectors.

Foreign Affairs and Diplomatic Relations

• Managing Dominica’s diplomatic missions and consular services.
• Representing Dominica in international organizations including the Organization of American States (OAS), United Nations, and CARICOM.
• Coordinating state visits, international cooperation agreements, and foreign aid negotiations.
• Strengthening bilateral ties with strategic countries in Latin America, Asia, the EU, and the Caribbean.

International Business and Trade

• Facilitating foreign direct investment into priority sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and services.
• Overseeing regulatory frameworks for offshore businesses and economic citizenship-related investment.
• Promoting Dominica’s exports through trade negotiations and participation in regional trade bodies.
• Coordinating business delegations, expos, and investment forums on behalf of the state.

Energy Policy and Sustainability

• Directing national energy planning and transitioning to renewable energy sources including geothermal, solar, and hydroelectric.
• Overseeing initiatives such as the Dominica Geothermal Development Project and collaborations with Ormat Technologies.
• Ensuring energy security, pricing transparency, and sustainability targets are met in line with Dominica’s climate resilience goals.

Economic Diplomacy and Global Partnerships

• Leveraging diplomatic channels to secure financing, grants, and technical assistance for national development projects.
• Integrating foreign policy with Dominica’s broader economic strategy under frameworks like the National Resilience Development Strategy 2030.
• Building strategic alliances to support climate resilience, digital transformation, and disaster recovery.

Ministry’s Vision and Mission

The vision of the ministry is to advance Dominica’s interests through effective diplomacy, global presence, and mutually beneficial cooperation. Its mission is to enhance national development by strengthening international engagement, promoting trade and investment, and developing a sustainable and inclusive energy framework.