Legal Framework Governing TTSEZA
The Trinidad and Tobago Special Economic Zones Authority (TTSEZA) 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 Trinidad and Tobago Special Economic Zones Act, complemented by Trinidad and Tobago Special Economic Zones Regulations 2023. These legal instruments replace the Free Zones Act and align Trinidad and Tobago’s SEZ regime with international best practices.
Trinidad and Tobago Special Economic Zones Act
Enacted to create a modern, well-regulated investment environment, the Trinidad and Tobago Special Economic Zones Act establishes:
TTSEZA 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.
Trinidad and Tobago Special Economic Zones Regulations 2023
The Trinidad and Tobago Special Economic Zones 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.
Legal Notice No. 116 of 2024
The Legal Notice No. 116 of 2024, provides amendments to Schedules 1, 2 and 4. It incorporates:
- Benefits for licence holders.
- Eligibility criteria for each type of licence.
Transition from the Free Zones Act
With the full proclamation of the Trinidad and Tobago Special Economic Zones Act on July 5, 2024, the Free Zones Act was officially repealed.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
TTSEZA 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 TTSEZA’s legal framework or guidance on SEZ licensing and compliance, contact us:
