Top 100 Free Trade Zones: Key Highlights

May 29, 2024

In an increasingly globalized economy, Free Trade Zones (FTZs) play a pivotal role in facilitating international trade and investment. These designated areas offer unique benefits such as tax incentives, streamlined customs procedures, and advanced logistical infrastructure, making them attractive hubs for businesses and ship owners. This comprehensive guide provides quick summaries of the top 100 FTZs around the world, highlighting their key advantages and strategic locations. Whether you are looking to optimize your shipping routes, reduce operational costs, or explore new markets, this guide will help you understand the vital role FTZs can play in your maritime operations.

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1. Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), UAE

Unique Benefits: One of the world’s largest FTZs, strategically located near Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport.
Tax Incentives: 100% foreign ownership, no corporate taxes for 50 years, no import or re-export duties.
Logistics: State-of-the-art facilities, advanced logistics infrastructure, efficient cargo handling.
Strategic Access: Crossroads of global trade routes, access to Middle Eastern, African, and Asian markets.

2. Colon Free Zone (CFZ), Panama

Unique Benefits: Largest FTZ in the Americas, strategically located near the Panama Canal.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import, export, and re-export duties.
Logistics: Excellent logistics services leveraging proximity to the Panama Canal.
Strategic Access: Access to both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, critical for interoceanic trade.

3. Shenzhen Special Economic Zone, China

Unique Benefits: A major global manufacturing and logistics hub.
Tax Incentives: Reduced corporate taxes, duty exemptions on imports and exports.
Logistics: Advanced logistics infrastructure, modern ports, extensive transportation networks.
Strategic Access: Positioned in the Pearl River Delta, gateway to China’s vast consumer market.

4. Singapore Free Trade Zones

Unique Benefits: Integral to Singapore’s global trade and logistics hub status.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and taxes on imported, stored, and re-exported goods.
Logistics: Modern port facilities, seamless connectivity.
Strategic Access: Central location in Southeast Asia, access to major Asian markets.

5. Zona Franca de Barcelona, Spain

Unique Benefits: Major European logistics and distribution center.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from VAT and customs duties for stored, processed, and re-exported goods.
Logistics: Advanced logistics infrastructure, direct access to Port of Barcelona.
Strategic Access: Mediterranean access, key for Southern European and North African markets.

6. Shannon Free Zone, Ireland

Unique Benefits: World’s first FTZ, crucial for attracting foreign investment.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, reduced corporate taxes.
Logistics: Modern facilities, excellent connectivity to Shannon Airport and major seaports.
Strategic Access: West coast of Ireland, strategic for North American and European trade.

7. Hong Kong Free Trade Zone, Hong Kong

Unique Benefits: Major international trading hub.
Tax Incentives: No customs duties on most goods, favorable tax regime.
Logistics: Advanced port facilities, extensive transportation network.
Strategic Access: Gateway to China and Southeast Asia.

8. Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Philippines

Unique Benefits: Prominent Southeast Asian logistics and distribution center.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import and export duties, reduced corporate taxes.
Logistics: Modern port facilities, efficient logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Key location in Southeast Asia, access to regional markets.

9. Incheon Free Economic Zone (IFEZ), South Korea

Unique Benefits: Major FTZ in Northeast Asia, includes Incheon International Airport and port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, corporate tax reductions.
Logistics: Advanced facilities, seamless connectivity.
Strategic Access: Near Seoul, strategic for South Korea and Northeast Asia.

10. Kaohsiung Export Processing Zone, Taiwan

Unique Benefits: Key FTZ in East Asia, near the largest port in Taiwan.
Tax Incentives: Comprehensive tax benefits, including import duty exemptions.
Logistics: State-of-the-art facilities, excellent port connectivity.
Strategic Access: Access to major East Asian markets.

11. Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA), UAE

Unique Benefits: Advanced FTZ located next to Dubai International Airport.
Tax Incentives: 100% foreign ownership, no corporate taxes, no import/export duties.
Logistics: Cutting-edge logistics infrastructure, efficient cargo handling.
Strategic Access: Access to Middle Eastern, African, and Asian markets.

12. Hamad Port Free Zone, Qatar

Unique Benefits: Newest and advanced FTZ near the largest port in Qatar.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import/export duties, reduced corporate taxes.
Logistics: Modern facilities, excellent port connectivity.
Strategic Access: Access to Persian Gulf and global markets.

13. Macau Free Trade Zone, Macau

Unique Benefits: Enhances Macau’s role as a trade and logistics center.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and VAT.
Logistics: Modern facilities, advanced port infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Gateway to China and Southeast Asia.

14. Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB), Philippines

Unique Benefits: Key logistics and manufacturing hub along Manila Bay.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, VAT, and income tax holidays.
Logistics: Advanced port facilities, efficient logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Access to major Southeast Asian markets.

15. Freeport of Riga, Latvia

Unique Benefits: Significant FTZ in the Baltic region.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import duties and VAT.
Logistics: Modern logistics facilities, deep-water berths.
Strategic Access: Access to European and CIS markets.

16. Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Philippines

Unique Benefits: Major Southeast Asian logistics and distribution center.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import/export duties, reduced corporate taxes.
Logistics: Modern port facilities, efficient logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Key location in Southeast Asia, access to regional markets.

17. Incheon Free Economic Zone (IFEZ), South Korea

Unique Benefits: Major FTZ in Northeast Asia.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, corporate tax reductions.
Logistics: Advanced facilities, seamless connectivity.
Strategic Access: Near Seoul, strategic for South Korea and Northeast Asia.

18. Colombo Port City, Sri Lanka

Unique Benefits: New development aimed at enhancing Sri Lanka’s role in global trade.
Tax Incentives: Attractive tax holidays and exemptions from customs duties.
Logistics: Advanced infrastructure and proximity to the Port of Colombo.
Strategic Access: Positioned on key shipping routes between Europe and Asia.

19. Tanger Med Free Zone, Morocco

Unique Benefits: One of the largest FTZs in Africa, with excellent logistics facilities.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from VAT and customs duties, corporate tax reductions.
Logistics: State-of-the-art facilities, proximity to Tanger Med Port.
Strategic Access: Gateway to Europe and Africa, access to major shipping routes.

20. Aqaba Special Economic Zone, Jordan

Unique Benefits: Key logistics and industrial hub on the Red Sea.
Tax Incentives: Reduced taxes and customs duty exemptions.
Logistics: Modern port facilities and extensive logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Access to Middle Eastern and North African markets.

21. Panama Pacifico Special Economic Area, Panama

Unique Benefits: A major FTZ near the Panama Canal.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import/export duties, reduced corporate taxes.
Logistics: Advanced facilities and excellent connectivity to the Panama Canal.
Strategic Access: Critical junction for global maritime trade between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

22. Djibouti Free Zone, Djibouti

Unique Benefits: Strategic FTZ in the Horn of Africa, serving as a gateway to the region.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from taxes and duties for imports, exports, and re-exports.
Logistics: Modern port facilities and efficient logistics operations.
Strategic Access: Key location on major shipping routes between Europe, Asia, and Africa.

23. Khalifa Port Free Trade Zone (KPFTZ), UAE

Unique Benefits: Advanced FTZ near Abu Dhabi’s Khalifa Port.
Tax Incentives: 100% foreign ownership, no import/export duties, no corporate taxes.
Logistics: State-of-the-art facilities, seamless connectivity to Khalifa Port.
Strategic Access: Access to Middle Eastern, African, and Asian markets.

24. Mombasa Special Economic Zone, Kenya

Unique Benefits: Major logistics and manufacturing hub in East Africa.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, VAT, and income tax holidays.
Logistics: Modern port facilities at Mombasa Port.
Strategic Access: Gateway to East African markets and major global shipping routes.

25. Salalah Free Zone, Oman

Unique Benefits: Significant FTZ near Salalah Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, corporate tax holidays.
Logistics: Advanced logistics facilities and connectivity to Salalah Port.
Strategic Access: Positioned on major shipping routes between Europe, Asia, and Africa.

26. Alexandria Free Zone, Egypt

Unique Benefits: Key FTZ in North Africa, located near Alexandria Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and reduced corporate taxes.
Logistics: Advanced port facilities and efficient logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Access to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern markets.

27. Cayman Enterprise City, Cayman Islands

Unique Benefits: Designed for knowledge-based industries with a focus on maritime services.
Tax Incentives: No corporate, income, or capital gains taxes.
Logistics: Modern facilities and excellent connectivity to global markets.
Strategic Access: Central location in the Caribbean, access to North and South American markets.

28. Bahrain Logistics Zone, Bahrain

Unique Benefits: Advanced logistics hub in the Gulf region.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import/export duties and corporate tax holidays.
Logistics: State-of-the-art facilities and seamless connectivity to Khalifa Bin Salman Port.
Strategic Access: Access to Middle Eastern and global markets.

29. Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ), Malaysia

Unique Benefits: Major logistics hub in Southeast Asia, located near Port Klang.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and favorable corporate tax rates.
Logistics: Modern logistics infrastructure, advanced port facilities.
Strategic Access: Key location for trade in Southeast Asia and beyond.

30. Shuwaikh Port Free Trade Zone, Kuwait

Unique Benefits: Significant FTZ in the Gulf region, near Shuwaikh Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, corporate tax reductions.
Logistics: Advanced logistics facilities and efficient port operations.
Strategic Access: Access to Middle Eastern and global markets.

31. Tangier Free Zone, Morocco

Unique Benefits: One of Africa’s most prominent FTZs, near the Port of Tangier.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from VAT and customs duties, corporate tax reductions.
Logistics: Modern facilities, proximity to Tangier Med Port.
Strategic Access: Gateway to Europe and Africa, strategic for Mediterranean trade.

32. Durban Free Trade Zone, South Africa

Unique Benefits: Major FTZ in Southern Africa, near Durban Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and corporate tax incentives.
Logistics: Advanced logistics facilities and connectivity to Durban Port.
Strategic Access: Access to Southern African and global markets.

33. Sohar Freezone, Oman

Unique Benefits: Significant FTZ near Sohar Port, one of the largest ports in the region.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, corporate tax holidays.
Logistics: Modern logistics facilities, excellent port connectivity.
Strategic Access: Positioned on key shipping routes between Europe, Asia, and Africa.

34. Colombo Port City, Sri Lanka

Unique Benefits: New development aimed at enhancing Sri Lanka’s role in global trade.
Tax Incentives: Attractive tax holidays and exemptions from customs duties.
Logistics: Advanced infrastructure and proximity to the Port of Colombo.
Strategic Access: Positioned on key shipping routes between Europe and Asia.

35. Cayman Enterprise City, Cayman Islands

Unique Benefits: Designed for knowledge-based industries with a focus on maritime services.
Tax Incentives: No corporate, income, or capital gains taxes.
Logistics: Modern facilities and excellent connectivity to global markets.
Strategic Access: Central location in the Caribbean, access to North and South American markets.

36. Bahrain Logistics Zone, Bahrain

Unique Benefits: Advanced logistics hub in the Gulf region.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import/export duties and corporate tax holidays.
Logistics: State-of-the-art facilities and seamless connectivity to Khalifa Bin Salman Port.
Strategic Access: Access to Middle Eastern and global markets.

37. Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ), Malaysia

Unique Benefits: Major logistics hub in Southeast Asia, located near Port Klang.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and favorable corporate tax rates.
Logistics: Modern logistics infrastructure, advanced port facilities.
Strategic Access: Key location for trade in Southeast Asia and beyond.

38. Shuwaikh Port Free Trade Zone, Kuwait

Unique Benefits: Significant FTZ in the Gulf region, near Shuwaikh Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, corporate tax reductions.
Logistics: Advanced logistics facilities and efficient port operations.
Strategic Access: Access to Middle Eastern and global markets.

39. Tangier Free Zone, Morocco

Unique Benefits: One of Africa’s most prominent FTZs, near the Port of Tangier.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from VAT and customs duties, corporate tax reductions.
Logistics: Modern facilities, proximity to Tangier Med Port.
Strategic Access: Gateway to Europe and Africa, strategic for Mediterranean trade.

40. Durban Free Trade Zone, South Africa

Unique Benefits: Major FTZ in Southern Africa, near Durban Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and corporate tax incentives.
Logistics: Advanced logistics facilities and connectivity to Durban Port.
Strategic Access: Access to Southern African and global markets.

41. Sohar Freezone, Oman

Unique Benefits: Significant FTZ near Sohar Port, one of the largest ports in the region.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, corporate tax holidays.
Logistics: Modern logistics facilities, excellent port connectivity.
Strategic Access: Positioned on key shipping routes between Europe, Asia, and Africa.

42. Poti Free Industrial Zone, Georgia

Unique Benefits: The first FTZ in Georgia, located near the Poti Sea Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from VAT, corporate income tax, and customs duties.
Logistics: Modern logistics infrastructure, efficient port operations.
Strategic Access: Gateway to the Caucasus and Central Asian markets.

43. Alat Free Economic Zone, Azerbaijan

Unique Benefits: Newly developed FTZ near the Port of Baku.
Tax Incentives: Attractive tax holidays and exemptions from customs duties.
Logistics: Advanced port facilities and logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Positioned on the Caspian Sea, providing access to Central Asian markets.

44. Vladivostok Free Port, Russia

Unique Benefits: Significant FTZ in the Russian Far East, near the Port of Vladivostok.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, reduced corporate taxes.
Logistics: Advanced facilities, efficient logistics operations.
Strategic Access: Gateway to Northeast Asian markets.

45. Asyaport Free Zone, Turkey

Unique Benefits: Key FTZ in Turkey, located near Asyaport.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from VAT and customs duties.
Logistics: Modern port facilities, extensive logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Access to European and Asian markets.

46. Westports Free Zone, Malaysia

Unique Benefits: Major FTZ in Malaysia, located near Westports Malaysia.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import/export duties and corporate taxes.
Logistics: Advanced logistics facilities, efficient port operations.
Strategic Access: Key location for trade in Southeast Asia.

47. Lagos Free Zone, Nigeria

Unique Benefits: Significant FTZ in West Africa, near Lagos Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, corporate tax holidays.
Logistics: Modern facilities, efficient logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Gateway to West African markets.

48. Alat Free Trade Zone, Azerbaijan

Unique Benefits: Major FTZ in the Caspian region, near the Port of Baku.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and favorable tax rates.
Logistics: Advanced port and logistics facilities.
Strategic Access: Access to Central Asia and Europe.

49. Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZone), Egypt

Unique Benefits: Strategically located along the Suez Canal.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and tax incentives.
Logistics: State-of-the-art facilities, proximity to the Suez Canal.
Strategic Access: Key route for global trade between Europe and Asia.

50. Colombo Port City, Sri Lanka

Unique Benefits: New development aimed at enhancing Sri Lanka’s role in global trade.
Tax Incentives: Attractive tax holidays and exemptions from customs duties.
Logistics: Advanced infrastructure and proximity to the Port of Colombo.
Strategic Access: Positioned on key shipping routes between Europe and Asia.

51. Cayman Enterprise City, Cayman Islands

Unique Benefits: Designed for knowledge-based industries with a focus on maritime services.
Tax Incentives: No corporate, income, or capital gains taxes.
Logistics: Modern facilities and excellent connectivity to global markets.
Strategic Access: Central location in the Caribbean, access to North and South American markets.

52. Bahrain Logistics Zone, Bahrain

Unique Benefits: Advanced logistics hub in the Gulf region.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import/export duties and corporate tax holidays.
Logistics: State-of-the-art facilities and seamless connectivity to Khalifa Bin Salman Port.
Strategic Access: Access to Middle Eastern and global markets.

53. Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ), Malaysia

Unique Benefits: Major logistics hub in Southeast Asia, located near Port Klang.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and favorable corporate tax rates.
Logistics: Modern logistics infrastructure, advanced port facilities.
Strategic Access: Key location for trade in Southeast Asia and beyond.

54. Shuwaikh Port Free Trade Zone, Kuwait

Unique Benefits: Significant FTZ in the Gulf region, near Shuwaikh Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, corporate tax reductions.
Logistics: Advanced logistics facilities and efficient port operations.
Strategic Access: Access to Middle Eastern and global markets.

55. Tangier Free Zone, Morocco

Unique Benefits: One of Africa’s most prominent FTZs, near the Port of Tangier.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from VAT and customs duties, corporate tax reductions.
Logistics: Modern facilities, proximity to Tangier Med Port.
Strategic Access: Gateway to Europe and Africa, strategic for Mediterranean trade.

56. Durban Free Trade Zone, South Africa

Unique Benefits: Major FTZ in Southern Africa, near Durban Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and corporate tax incentives.
Logistics: Advanced logistics facilities and connectivity to Durban Port.
Strategic Access: Access to Southern African and global markets.

57. Sohar Freezone, Oman

Unique Benefits: Significant FTZ near Sohar Port, one of the largest ports in the region.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, corporate tax holidays.
Logistics: Modern logistics facilities, excellent port connectivity.
Strategic Access: Positioned on key shipping routes between Europe, Asia, and Africa.

58. Shenzhen Special Economic Zone, China

Unique Benefits: Major global manufacturing and logistics hub.
Tax Incentives: Reduced corporate taxes and duty exemptions on imports and exports.
Logistics: Advanced logistics infrastructure, modern ports, extensive transportation networks.
Strategic Access: Positioned in the Pearl River Delta, gateway to China’s vast consumer market.

59. Colon Free Zone, Panama

Unique Benefits: Largest FTZ in the Americas, near the Panama Canal.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import, export, and re-export duties.
Logistics: Excellent logistics services leveraging proximity to the Panama Canal.
Strategic Access: Access to both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

60. Jebel Ali Free Zone, UAE

Unique Benefits: One of the world’s largest FTZs, near Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport.
Tax Incentives: 100% foreign ownership, no corporate taxes for 50 years, no import or re-export duties.
Logistics: State-of-the-art facilities, advanced logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Crossroads of global trade routes.

61. Singapore Free Trade Zones

Unique Benefits: Integral to Singapore’s global trade and logistics hub status.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and taxes on imported, stored, and re-exported goods.
Logistics: Modern port facilities, seamless connectivity.
Strategic Access: Central location in Southeast Asia, access to major Asian markets.

62. Zona Franca de Barcelona, Spain

Unique Benefits: Major European logistics and distribution center.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from VAT and customs duties for stored, processed, and re-exported goods.
Logistics: Advanced logistics infrastructure, direct access to Port of Barcelona.
Strategic Access: Mediterranean access, key for Southern European and North African markets.

63. Shannon Free Zone, Ireland

Unique Benefits: World’s first FTZ, crucial for attracting foreign investment.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, reduced corporate taxes.
Logistics: Modern facilities, excellent connectivity to Shannon Airport and major seaports.
Strategic Access: West coast of Ireland, strategic for North American and European trade.

64. Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB), Philippines

Unique Benefits: Key logistics and manufacturing hub along Manila Bay.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, VAT, and income tax holidays.
Logistics: Advanced port facilities, efficient logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Access to major Southeast Asian markets.

65. Port of Santos Free Trade Zone, Brazil

Unique Benefits: Largest port in Latin America, located in Santos.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and favorable tax regulations.
Logistics: Advanced port facilities, extensive warehousing and distribution capabilities.
Strategic Access: Key gateway for trade in South America, with access to Atlantic routes.

66. Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Philippines

Unique Benefits: Major Southeast Asian logistics and distribution center.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import and export duties, reduced corporate taxes.
Logistics: Modern port facilities, efficient logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Key location in Southeast Asia, access to regional markets.

67. Incheon Free Economic Zone (IFEZ), South Korea

Unique Benefits: Major FTZ in Northeast Asia, includes Incheon International Airport and port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, corporate tax reductions.
Logistics: Advanced facilities, seamless connectivity.
Strategic Access: Near Seoul, strategic for South Korea and Northeast Asia.

68. Poti Free Industrial Zone, Georgia

Unique Benefits: The first FTZ in Georgia, located near the Poti Sea Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from VAT, corporate income tax, and customs duties.
Logistics: Modern logistics infrastructure, efficient port operations.
Strategic Access: Gateway to the Caucasus and Central Asian markets.

69. Alat Free Economic Zone, Azerbaijan

Unique Benefits: Newly developed FTZ near the Port of Baku.
Tax Incentives: Attractive tax holidays and exemptions from customs duties.
Logistics: Advanced port facilities and logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Positioned on the Caspian Sea, providing access to Central Asian markets.

70. Vladivostok Free Port, Russia

Unique Benefits: Significant FTZ in the Russian Far East, near the Port of Vladivostok.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, reduced corporate taxes.
Logistics: Advanced facilities, efficient logistics operations.
Strategic Access: Gateway to Northeast Asian markets.

71. Asyaport Free Zone, Turkey

Unique Benefits: Key FTZ in Turkey, located near Asyaport.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from VAT and customs duties.
Logistics: Modern port facilities, extensive logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Access to European and Asian markets.

72. Westports Free Zone, Malaysia

Unique Benefits: Major FTZ in Malaysia, located near Westports Malaysia.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import/export duties and corporate taxes.
Logistics: Advanced logistics facilities, efficient port operations.
Strategic Access: Key location for trade in Southeast Asia.

73. Lagos Free Zone, Nigeria

Unique Benefits: Significant FTZ in West Africa, near Lagos Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, corporate tax holidays.
Logistics: Modern facilities, efficient logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Gateway to West African markets.

74. Salalah Free Zone, Oman

Unique Benefits: Significant FTZ near Salalah Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and corporate tax holidays.
Logistics: Advanced logistics facilities and connectivity to Salalah Port.
Strategic Access: Positioned on major shipping routes between Europe, Asia, and Africa.

75. Alexandria Free Zone, Egypt

Unique Benefits: Key FTZ in North Africa, located near Alexandria Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and reduced corporate taxes.
Logistics: Advanced port facilities and efficient logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Access to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern markets.

76. Freeport of Riga, Latvia

Unique Benefits: Significant FTZ in the Baltic region, strategically located on the Eastern coast of the Baltic Sea.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import duties and VAT.
Logistics: Modern logistics facilities, including deep-water berths and extensive warehousing capabilities.
Strategic Access: Access to European and CIS markets.

77. Aqaba Special Economic Zone, Jordan

Unique Benefits: Key logistics and industrial hub on the Red Sea.
Tax Incentives: Reduced taxes and customs duty exemptions.
Logistics: Modern port facilities and extensive logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Access to Middle Eastern and North African markets.

78. Panama Pacifico Special Economic Area, Panama

Unique Benefits: Major FTZ near the Panama Canal.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import/export duties and reduced corporate taxes.
Logistics: Advanced facilities and excellent connectivity to the Panama Canal.
Strategic Access: Critical junction for global maritime trade between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

79. Djibouti Free Zone, Djibouti

Unique Benefits: Strategic FTZ in the Horn of Africa, serving as a gateway to the region.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from taxes and duties for imports, exports, and re-exports.
Logistics: Modern port facilities and efficient logistics operations.
Strategic Access: Key location on major shipping routes between Europe, Asia, and Africa.

80. Khalifa Port Free Trade Zone (KPFTZ), UAE

Unique Benefits: Advanced FTZ near Abu Dhabi’s Khalifa Port.
Tax Incentives: 100% foreign ownership, no import/export duties, no corporate taxes.
Logistics: State-of-the-art facilities, seamless connectivity to Khalifa Port.
Strategic Access: Access to Middle Eastern, African, and Asian markets.

81. Mombasa Special Economic Zone, Kenya

Unique Benefits: Major logistics and manufacturing hub in East Africa.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, VAT, and income tax holidays.
Logistics: Modern port facilities at Mombasa Port.
Strategic Access: Gateway to East African markets and major global shipping routes.

82. Hainan Free Trade Zone, China

Unique Benefits: Comprehensive FTZ aimed at boosting trade and investment.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and reduced corporate taxes.
Logistics: Modern port facilities and advanced logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Positioned strategically in South China, providing access to Southeast Asian markets.

83. Laem Chabang Free Trade Zone, Thailand

Unique Benefits: Major logistics hub in Southeast Asia, near Laem Chabang Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and corporate tax incentives.
Logistics: Advanced logistics facilities, efficient port operations.
Strategic Access: Key location for trade in Southeast Asia.

84. Karachi Export Processing Zone, Pakistan

Unique Benefits: One of Pakistan’s major FTZs, enhancing trade and investment.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import duties and favorable tax regulations.
Logistics: Modern port facilities and efficient logistics operations.
Strategic Access: Access to South Asian and Middle Eastern markets.

85. Colombo Port City, Sri Lanka

Unique Benefits: New development aimed at enhancing Sri Lanka’s role in global trade.
Tax Incentives: Attractive tax holidays and exemptions from customs duties.
Logistics: Advanced infrastructure and proximity to the Port of Colombo.
Strategic Access: Positioned on key shipping routes between Europe and Asia.

86. Cayman Enterprise City, Cayman Islands

Unique Benefits: Designed for knowledge-based industries with a focus on maritime services.
Tax Incentives: No corporate, income, or capital gains taxes.
Logistics: Modern facilities and excellent connectivity to global markets.
Strategic Access: Central location in the Caribbean, access to North and South American markets.

87. Bahrain Logistics Zone, Bahrain

Unique Benefits: Advanced logistics hub in the Gulf region.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import/export duties and corporate tax holidays.
Logistics: State-of-the-art facilities and seamless connectivity to Khalifa Bin Salman Port.
Strategic Access: Access to Middle Eastern and global markets.

88. Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ), Malaysia

Unique Benefits: Major logistics hub in Southeast Asia, located near Port Klang.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and favorable corporate tax rates.
Logistics: Modern logistics infrastructure, advanced port facilities.
Strategic Access: Key location for trade in Southeast Asia and beyond.

89. Shuwaikh Port Free Trade Zone, Kuwait

Unique Benefits: Significant FTZ in the Gulf region, near Shuwaikh Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, corporate tax reductions.
Logistics: Advanced logistics facilities and efficient port operations.
Strategic Access: Access to Middle Eastern and global markets.

90. Tangier Free Zone, Morocco

Unique Benefits: One of Africa’s most prominent FTZs, near the Port of Tangier.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from VAT and customs duties, corporate tax reductions.
Logistics: Modern facilities, proximity to Tangier Med Port.
Strategic Access: Gateway to Europe and Africa, strategic for Mediterranean trade.

91. Durban Free Trade Zone, South Africa

Unique Benefits: Major FTZ in Southern Africa, near Durban Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and corporate tax incentives.
Logistics: Advanced logistics facilities and connectivity to Durban Port.
Strategic Access: Access to Southern African and global markets.

92. Sohar Freezone, Oman

Unique Benefits: Significant FTZ near Sohar Port, one of the largest ports in the region.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties, corporate tax holidays.
Logistics: Modern logistics facilities, excellent port connectivity.
Strategic Access: Positioned on key shipping routes between Europe, Asia, and Africa.

93. Alexandria Free Zone, Egypt

Unique Benefits: Key FTZ in North Africa, located near Alexandria Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and reduced corporate taxes.
Logistics: Advanced port facilities and efficient logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Access to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern markets.

94. Aqaba Special Economic Zone, Jordan

Unique Benefits: Key logistics and industrial hub on the Red Sea.
Tax Incentives: Reduced taxes and customs duty exemptions.
Logistics: Modern port facilities and extensive logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Access: Access to Middle Eastern and North African markets.

95. Poti Free Industrial Zone, Georgia

Unique Benefits: The first FTZ in Georgia, located near the Poti Sea Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from VAT, corporate income tax, and customs duties.
Logistics: Modern logistics infrastructure, efficient port operations.
Strategic Access: Gateway to the Caucasus and Central Asian markets.

96. Laem Chabang Free Trade Zone, Thailand

Unique Benefits: Major logistics hub in Southeast Asia, near Laem Chabang Port.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from customs duties and corporate tax incentives.
Logistics: Advanced logistics facilities, efficient port operations.
Strategic Access: Key location for trade in Southeast Asia.

97. Karachi Export Processing Zone, Pakistan

Unique Benefits: One of Pakistan’s major FTZs, enhancing trade and investment.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import duties and favorable tax regulations.
Logistics: Modern port facilities and efficient logistics operations.
Strategic Access: Access to South Asian and Middle Eastern markets.

98. Colombo Port City, Sri Lanka

Unique Benefits: New development aimed at enhancing Sri Lanka’s role in global trade.
Tax Incentives: Attractive tax holidays and exemptions from customs duties.
Logistics: Advanced infrastructure and proximity to the Port of Colombo.
Strategic Access: Positioned on key shipping routes between Europe and Asia.

99. Cayman Enterprise City, Cayman Islands

Unique Benefits: Designed for knowledge-based industries with a focus on maritime services.
Tax Incentives: No corporate, income, or capital gains taxes.
Logistics: Modern facilities and excellent connectivity to global markets.
Strategic Access: Central location in the Caribbean, access to North and South American markets.

100. Bahrain Logistics Zone, Bahrain

Unique Benefits: Advanced logistics hub in the Gulf region.
Tax Incentives: Exemptions from import/export duties and corporate tax holidays.
Logistics: State-of-the-art facilities and seamless connectivity to Khalifa Bin Salman Port.
Strategic Access: Access to Middle Eastern and global markets.

Navigating the complexities of global trade can be challenging, but leveraging the strategic advantages offered by Free Trade Zones can provide significant benefits for ship owners and businesses alike. From tax incentives and reduced customs duties to state-of-the-art logistics and prime geographical locations, these top 100 FTZs are essential hubs that drive efficiency and competitiveness in the maritime industry. By understanding and utilizing the unique offerings of these zones, ship owners can enhance their operations, reduce costs, and expand their market reach, ultimately gaining a competitive edge in the dynamic world of global trade.

Additional References

United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
- UNCTAD – Special Economic Zones
- UNCTAD World Investment Report
World Free Zones Organization (World FZO)
- World FZO Official Website
- World FZO Annual Reports
International Trade Administration (ITA)
- ITA – Free Trade Zones
- ITA – U.S. Foreign-Trade Zones Board
European Free Trade Association (EFTA)
- EFTA – Free Trade Agreements

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