Legal Framework Governing SEZA
The Trinidad and Tobago Special Economic Zones Authority (SEZA) operates within a clear, structured legal framework designed to regulate Special Economic Zones (SEZs), ensure compliance, and attract investment.
This framework is primarily established through the Special Economic Zones Act, 2022, complemented by SEZ Regulations, 2023. These legal instruments replace the Free Zones Act and align Trinidad and Tobago’s SEZ regime with international best practices.
Special Economic Zones Act, 2022
Enacted to create a modern, well-regulated investment environment, the Special Economic Zones Act, 2022 establishes:
SEZA as the governing authority responsible for SEZ designation, licensing, and regulation.
A structured licensing system for SEZ Operators, SEZ Enterprises, and Single Zone Enterprises.
Guidelines for SEZ designation, ensuring that proposed zones align with national economic objectives.
Incentives and support measures, including tax benefits, customs duty exemptions, and streamlined trade facilitation to attract high-value investments.
SEZ Regulations, 2023
The SEZ Regulations, 2023 provide detailed operational guidelines for SEZs, including:
- Application procedures for SEZ licenses, including documentation requirements.
- Compliance and reporting obligations for SEZ Operators and Enterprises.
- Inspection and enforcement mechanisms to ensure adherence to regulations.
Transition from the Free Zones Act
With the full proclamation of the SEZ Act on July 5, 2024, the Free Zones Act was officially repealed. This transition modernizes the regulatory framework, making Trinidad and Tobago’s SEZs:
- More transparent – Ensuring compliance with international tax and trade standards.
- More attractive to investors – Offering globally competitive incentives.
- Better aligned with economic diversification goals – Supporting manufacturing, logistics, technology, and other priority sectors.
Alignment with International Standards
SEZA operates in compliance with global trade, tax, and investment regulations, ensuring that Trinidad and Tobago remains a trusted jurisdiction for investors. This includes:
- Anti-Money Laundering (AML) & Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF) compliance.
- Adherence to World Trade Organization (WTO) and Caribbean trade agreements.
- Transparent financial and operational reporting requirements.
Need More Information?
For further details on SEZA’s legal framework or guidance on SEZ licensing and compliance, contact us:
- info@seza.gov.tt
- +1-868-226-5593
