American Conference Institute FCPA Emerging Markets

Overcoming FCPA Compliance Challenges in West Africa

The Western African market is an attractive one to US businesses for many reasons, including its large population and natural resources, particularly oil and gas. It has also, however, been associated with a large number of recent FCPA enforcement actions. Many pending investigations reportedly involve West Africa. Security issues coupled with FCPA challenges unique to the region have sometimes caused companies to cease operations altogether. Local authorities have taken notice and are making serious efforts to combat corruption in government and the private sector.

During this practical workshop, speakers will share their insights on how to successfully conduct business in West Africa, including Nigeria and Ghana without falling into a bribery trap. This interactive workshop will provide a comprehensive introduction to local anti-bribery laws, the anti-corruption enforcement landscape, and practical guidance on how to deal with day-to-day anti-bribery issues in the region. Topics will include:

• Navigating local anti-bribery laws and their evolution
• Local anti-corruption enforcement initiatives and increased cooperation amongst regulators
• Due diligence strategies for third parties in the West African market
• Handling threats to safety and security in an FCPA context
• Customary business practices in West Africa and common red flags
• How to train local staff to deal with corruption in remote locals
• Lessons learned from recent cases
• Implementation of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative