Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
The Trinidad and Tobago Special Economic Zones Authority (SEZA) will provide the necessary supervision and regulation of SEZs, and will be the body responsible for theoverarching governance of the new SEZ regime whose function are to review, assess and determine applications for Operator Licences, Special Economic Zone Enterprise Licence and Singe Zone Enterprise Licences.
SEZA is committed to sustainable economic growth, attracting investments, and fostering innovation.
To assess investment opportunities through clear and transparent criteria and to monitor approved investments to ensure they meet or exceed desired outcomes
To enhance economic growth, facilitate diversification and development in Trinidad and Tobago through the provision of modern licensing and administrative regime
Regulate and supervise Zones
Facilitate an enabling environment in the areas designated as Special Economic zones.
Review, access and determine applications for Operator Licences, Special Economic Zones Enterprise Licence, and Single Zone Enterprise Licence.
Formulate guidelines and codes of practice to be observed by operators, SEZ Enterprises or Single Zone Enterprises.
Develop modern infrastructure required to attract foreign direct investment andstimulate domestic investment, promote economic development in local communities and advance further diversification of the economy.
SEZA operates under the Ministry of Trade and Industry, ensuring regulatory compliance for businesses operating within our zones. Our partnership with the Ministry aligns SEZ operations with Trinidad & Tobago’s national economic policies.
We streamline processes to encourage international trade and attract investors through simplified regulations.
Our zones feature world-class infrastructure to support businesses, from logistics hubs to manufacturing plants.
We promote eco-friendly practices to ensure environmental protection alongside economic progress.
SEZA drives national economic development by fostering entrepreneurship, employment, and international partnerships.
The establishment of the Trinidad and Tobago Special Economic Zones Authority (SEZA) is a direct outcome of economic policy reform aimed at enhancing the country’s investment climate, strengthening regulatory oversight, and aligning with international trade and compliance standards.
Trinidad and Tobago previously operated under the Free Zones regime, governed by the Free Zones Act, Chap. 81:07. While this regime provided incentives to businesses, it did not meet evolving global standards set by international bodies such as the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the EU Code of Conduct Group.
To address these shortcomings, the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) framework was developed to replace the Free Zones regime. This new framework introduces greater transparency, a stronger regulatory structure, and economic impact assessment mechanisms. The reform ensures compliance with global best practices in trade, taxation, and investment facilitation, positioning Trinidad and Tobago as a more attractive and internationally compliant investment destination.
SEZA operates under the Ministry of Trade and Industry, ensuring regulatory compliance for businesses operating within our zones. Our partnership with the Ministry aligns SEZ operations with Trinidad & Tobago’s national economic policies.
The Special Economic Zones Act, 2022, was assented to by the President, formally laying the foundation for the establishment of SEZA and the transition to a structured SEZ framework.
January 31, 2022 – Parts I to V of the SEZ Act were proclaimed via Legal Notice No. 16 of 2022, allowing for:
The Special Economic Zones Regulations, 2023 were issued via Legal Notice No. 370 of 2023, providing detailed operational guidelines for the implementation of the SEZ framework.
July 5, 2024 – The remaining Parts VI to XII of the SEZ Act were proclaimed under Legal Notice No. 121 of 2024, making the legislation fully operational. This enactment enabled:
The final date for Free Zone enterprises to transition into SEZ Enterprises. Under Legal Notice No. 122 of 2024, Free Zone companies may continue receiving benefits under the Free Zones regime until this date. Thereafter, all businesses must comply with the SEZ framework to continue operating under a government-sanctioned incentive regime.
With the full operationalisation of the SEZ Act, SEZA is now positioned as the national regulatory authority for Special Economic Zones in Trinidad and Tobago. The framework ensures that:
The introduction of the SEZ framework represents a major step forward in investment policy reform, creating an efficient, structured, and globally competitive business environment. SEZA’s role in facilitating SEZ growth and ensuring compliance with international regulations positions Trinidad and Tobago as a premier investment destination in the Caribbean.
For more information on SEZA’s role, licensing requirements, and regulatory oversight, visit the Legal Framework page.
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES AUTHORITY
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