ENVIRONMENT

Due to their geographical locations, all free trade zones in Uruguay allow an easy access to comfortable housing, spaces adequate for entertainment and recreation, and cultural and educational centers that guarantee a peaceful and secure living, where assets are also safe, in addition to the internationally renowned beaches.

ADMINISTRATION

Free trade zones in Uruguay are exploited by the State, or by private companies. Private free trade zones are managed by firms authorized by the government. The State free trade zones are administered by the Area of Free Trade Zones of the General Trade Bureau, which in turn supervises and controls the whole free trade system.

:: Requirements for applying for private exploitation of a Free Trade Zone.

ACTIVITIES

Free trade zones allow for all types of trade, industrial or services activities, with no restrictions and entitled to an exemption of all national taxes, whether existent or to be created in the future, except for the case of contributions to social security made in the name of Uruguayan employees. The entry of goods into the free trade zone areas is also exempt from all taxes. The Uruguayan State guarantees, by law, the rights that the law on free trade zones has determined for users and shall be liable for all damages to users.

COMPANIES

The companies entitled to perform activities at free trade zones may be natural or legal persons incorporated in any type of partnership, even companies with bearer shares, a fact that preserves the anonymity of investors. No differences are considered between national and foreign investments, and no special requirements apply to the latter, where foreign companies are allowed to establish branches. Of the hired personnel, 25% – or more, in specific cases to be considered by the Government – may be composed by foreign citizens who are allowed to choose not to make contributions to the Uruguayan social security system.

INFRAESTRUCTURE AND SERVICES OFFERED

Apart from obtaining the necessary authorization from the Government to operate, Uruguayan free trade zones are responsible for providing users the infrastructure needed to operate, in what concerns building aspects of a minimum urban development (plot division, warehouses, offices, etc.) and basic services (electrical power supply, sewage systems, telecommunications, security, etc.)

Each free trade zone offers a variety of possibilities, according to its specific location and to the particular development chosen, all subject to the State’s supervision:

Plots of different dimensions where companies may build their own facilities according to their specific needs. For this purpose, the entry of components and machinery shall be exempt from all documentary procedures and taxes.

Buildings for developing the users' activities regarding industries, trade, or services, adapted to the different needs of the companies.

Container terminal.

Office space adaptable to various needs.

Green areas designed especially to improve the physical environment.

Highly reliable energy and communications services.

Qualified manpower, easily adaptable to the latest technologies.

Quality transportation services available in the amounts necessary.