TTSEZA is the governing body responsible for regulating and overseeing Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Trinidad and Tobago. Established under the Special Economic Zones Act, 2022, TTSEZA ensures compliance, facilitates investment, and promotes economic diversification.

The Free Zones Act has been repealed with the full implementation of the Special Economic Zones Act, 2022, effective July 5, 2024. SEZs offer a modern regulatory framework, enhanced incentives, and stricter compliance requirements, making them more transparent and competitive.

Read the full SEZ Act here.

Any business operating within an SEZ must obtain a licence from TTSEZA. There are three types of licences:

• Operator Licence – For entities responsible for developing and managing an SEZ.
• SEZ Enterprise Licence – For businesses conducting approved commercial activities within an SEZ.
• Single Zone Enterprise Licence – For businesses operating exclusively within a single SEZ and managing its development.

To apply, businesses must submit:

• A detailed business plan and investment proposal outlining operational strategy.
• Compliance documentation covering tax, regulatory, and environmental obligations.
• Financial and employment projections demonstrating economic viability.

Applications are reviewed by TTSEZA, and licences are granted based on sector alignment, economic impact, and regulatory compliance.

TTSEZA offers fiscal and non-fiscal incentives, including:

• Reduced Corporate Tax Rate – A 15% corporate tax rate.
• VAT & Customs Duty Exemptions – Duty-free importation of machinery, raw materials, and capital equipment.
• Property Tax Exemptions – Full property tax exemption for approved SEZ businesses.
• Enhanced Capital Allowance – A 150% capital allowance on qualifying capital expenditures.

SEZ incentives are subject to TTSEZA’s regulations and periodic reviews, ensuring they align with national economic policies and international compliance standards. Businesses must maintain compliance with SEZ requirements to continue benefiting from these incentives.

All SEZ businesses must:

• Submit periodic financial and operational reports to TTSEZA.
• Comply with environmental and labour regulations.
• Ensure tax and customs documentation is accurate and up to date.
• Undergo periodic audits and inspections by TTSEZA.

Non-compliance may result in penalties, suspension, or revocation of licences.

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Read TTSEZA’s Compliance & Reporting Guidelines here

Yes. SEZ businesses must adhere to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, ensuring:

• Sustainable business operations that reduce environmental impact.
• Ethical labour practices that uphold workers’ rights and safety.
• Corporate social responsibility initiatives that benefit local communities.

TTSEZA provides a structured dispute resolution framework for:

• Conflicts between SEZ Operators and Enterprises.
• Investor disputes regarding licensing or regulatory matters.
• Government agency interactions with SEZ businesses.