SEZA 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, SEZA ensures compliance, facilitates investment, and promotes economic diversification.

Any business operating within an SEZ must obtain a licence from SEZA. 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 SEZA, and licences are granted based on sector alignment, economic impact, and regulatory compliance.

SEZA 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 SEZA’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.

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

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.

SEZA 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.