Brunei Economy and Business

• GDP: US$12.4 billion (2007).
• Main exports: Crude oil, natural gas and petroleum products.
• Main imports: Chemicals, food, machinery and transport equipment and manufactured goods.
• Main trade partners: Australia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia and Singapore.

Brunei's economy depends on its oil and natural gas deposits, which are mostly offshore, and its investments. Although these are not extensive by world standards, Brunei's small population enjoys a very high standard of living.

The economy has grown slowly in recent years due to temporarily lower oil and gas production as production facilities were repaired and upgraded. Risk also stems from volatility in oil prices. Dependence on oil and gas are being reduced to ensure current standards of living can continue.

Suits are recommended. Business visits are best made outside the monsoon season (between November and December). The services of a translator will not normally be required as English is widely spoken.

Office hours: Mon-Thurs 0800-1700, Sat 0800-1200.

Government office hours: Mon-Thurs and Sat 0745-1215 and 1330-1630. Shortened office hours operate during the fasting month of Ramadan.

Brunei Darussalam International Chamber of Commerce and Industry
PO Box 2285, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
Tel: (2) 226 000.

National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Brunei Darussalam
PO Box 115, Bandar Seri Begawan, BS8670, Brunei
Tel: (2) 243 321.