Benefits and advantages

To operate in the Western Free Zone

Benefits Tax

Access incentives to boost your company's competitiveness and sustainability in the Western Free Trade Zone.

Income tax

35%

20%

Tariff

5%-15%

0%

VAT on National Purchases

19%

0%

VAT Foreign Purchases

19%

0%

ICA (Industry and Commerce Tax) Exemption Defined by the Mosquera tax statute

Customs Facilities for your Global Operation

Simplify your foreign trade operations with more agile, secure, and efficient customs processes from the Western Free Trade Zone.

Option to nationalize MP or the final product

Unlimited storage

ZF intercompany purchases without VAT

Transfer of national merchandise between ZFs without authorization from Dian

Processings
Partial

Free movement of goods from ZFO to ports

International logistics distribution

Exports authorized by the UO to El Dorado International Airport

Goods produced in ZF acquire origin for FTA

Free movement of goods from ZFO to ports

International logistics distribution

Exports authorized by the UO to El Dorado International Airport

Logistics Advantages that Boost your Operation

Simplify your foreign trade operations with more agile, secure, and efficient customs processes from the Western Free Trade Zone.

Strategic location for imports and exports of goods and services

16 km from El Dorado International Airport

Located 7km from Bogotá DC which is ideal for IMPO & EXPO

The REGIOTRAM high-speed electric train passes in front of the ZFO, reducing travel time for passengers.

FAQs Free Zone

Frequently asked questions for companies in free trade zones

Free trade zones are defined geographical areas within the national territory where industrial, commercial, and service activities are carried out under special tax, customs, and foreign trade regulations. 

These zones enjoy certain tax benefits, such as exemption from paying import duties on goods, as well as exemptions from certain taxes or different regulations on them.

How many free trade zones are there in Colombia? To date, eleven free trade zones are operating, spread across the following municipalities: Barranquilla (1), Bogotá (1), Cali (1), Cartagena (2), Cúcuta (1), La Tebaida (1), Palmira (1), Santa Marta (1), Sopó (1), and Rionegro (1).

Free trade zones are specific spaces in Colombia that are clearly defined within the national territory.

Various industrial activities, such as the production of goods and services, as well as commercial activities, are carried out in these areas.

These activities are carried out under a set of special regulations related to taxes, customs and foreign trade.

Additionally, some tax benefits are available, such as exemption from paying import duties on goods. Likewise, some taxes are exempt or subject to different tax regulations, depending on the type of free zone. 

Free zone users can also access the single income tax rate, which results in tax advantages for industrial goods and services operations.

Companies operating within Free Trade Zones can import, produce, and then re-export their goods without paying the same customs taxes or dealing with the same customs restrictions they would face if they were based anywhere else in the country.

In Colombia, there are eight Permanent Free Trade Zones and fourteen Special Permanent Free Trade Zones available, where industrial goods and services activities are developed, promoting the generation of economies of scale and the implementation of clean and good practices.

These economic zones are designed to attract new capital investments and encourage the acquisition of new investments through the creation of direct, formal jobs and the adoption of good business practices.

Within these types of zones, trade in goods and services is facilitated by applying strict trade procedures to facilitate their sale in international markets. This creates opportunities in regions where free trade and investment in technology and clean and sustainable production are encouraged.

In Colombia's free trade zones, no customs taxes, such as VAT and tariffs, are generated or required to be paid on imported goods.

Exports to both third countries and the domestic market are possible from the western business park. Furthermore, foreign goods entering the Free Trade Zone can remain there indefinitely.

The free trade zone regime promoted by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism seeks to create yards, offices, and premises that foster economic activity and job creation.

Permanent free trade zones have become highly valuable spaces for trade and industry, thanks to their security and transparency, which attract highly productive industrialists.

Furthermore, their first-class infrastructure and services facilitate international trade and project structuring. These zones allow service companies and free zone users to operate within a favorable legal framework.

The various types of free trade zones ensure that both zone users and industries enjoy specific benefits tailored to their needs.

If you're interested in taking advantage of the other incentives the country offers, Colombia's free trade zone regime is an excellent option for exporters. For those who want to learn how to export, there are various export training options that provide essential tools to begin the process.

With export advice, entrepreneurs can better understand the benefits and challenges of exporting from Colombia. Free trade zones and other incentives allow for more efficient industrial development, especially in areas such as foreign exchange, tax, and customs matters.

If you want to export training tools internationally, proper guidance is essential, which is why many companies offer FAQs to clarify common questions. Also, when purchasing from Colombian suppliers, make sure you find the right tool supplier that meets your specific needs.

The strategic partners page is also an excellent source of information. Don't forget to review the data processing policy when managing your exports, as it's important to comply with all regulations.

If you're looking to export from Colombia or learn more about exporting with international training tools, consulting options are available to guide you through the entire process.

The central customs administration will handle the import and export of goods from free trade zones, as well as the import of goods from ports or cargo by land through institutions established in the western business park.

Permanent free trade zones play a crucial role in the development of industrial goods activities, operating under a free trade zone regime that promotes the attraction of new capital investments.

These areas are considered outside the national customs territory, with a special focus on customs tax matters, facilitating the trade of goods and services and facilitating their sale within and outside the customs territory.

There are various types of free trade zones, and within them, strict concepts of security, transparency, technology, clean production, and good practices are implemented, ensuring that highly productive and competitive industrial processes are carried out efficiently.

These zones also foster economies of scale, contributing to the growth of foreign trade and supporting the influx of imported goods to boost national productivity. They also generate direct and formal jobs, strengthening the economy in the most dynamic sectors.

It's essential to understand the different types of free trade zones and their relevance to modern industry. All rights reserved.

Need more information?

Leave us your details if you would like more information about our services.

Stay updated About Free Trade Zone

Blog of the Western Free Trade Zone

Free Trade Zone vs. Free Port: A Complete Guide to Choosing the Ideal Regime for Your Company

10 Reasons to Set Up Your Business in the Western Free Trade Zone

Free Trade Zone 4.0: Innovation for successful exporting in the digital age