Offshoring is the practice of locating some of a company’s manufacturing, services, or other processes in a country other than the country where the company is based. Offshoring is typically done to access lower-cost labor resources, labor resources with specific skills, and infrastructure, such as manufacturing plants.
In Hawaii, as in other states, offshoring is not directly regulated by state law, as it primarily pertains to the strategic business decisions made by private companies in the context of global operations. However, federal laws and international trade agreements can influence offshoring practices by setting tariffs, taxes, and regulations that impact the cost and feasibility of operating in foreign countries. Companies in Hawaii may offshore to take advantage of lower labor costs or specific skills abroad, but they must still comply with federal regulations such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, which prohibits bribery of foreign officials, and tax laws that govern the reporting and taxation of foreign income. Additionally, there may be federal incentives or disincentives that can affect offshoring decisions, such as tariffs imposed on goods produced overseas or tax benefits for companies that keep their operations within the United States. It's important for companies considering offshoring to consult with an attorney to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and to understand any potential legal implications of their business decisions.