Exporting Processing Zone

Export Processing Zones in Belize
The Export Processing Zone (EPZ) Program is intended to attract both local and foreign investment to boost production for export with a focus on manufactured goods and non-traditional agricultural products.

Benefits of EPZs in Belize
Full import and export duty exemptions
• Exemptions from capital gains tax, property and land taxes, excise, sales and consumption taxes, taxes on trade turnover, on foreign exchange and transfer tax
• Tax holiday of 20 years with an option to extend and deduct loses from profits following the tax holiday period
• Dividend tax exemption in perpetuity
• Opportunity to open foreign currency bank accounts in Belize and abroad
• Opportunity to sell, lease or transfer items, goods and services within an EPZ
• Customs inspection at the Zone for expediency
• Exemption from the Supplies Control Act and its regulations
• No import restrictions on raw materials
• No import or export licensing requirement
• No trade licenses

Who qualifies to establish an EPZ Business?
Any private or public party, or group of parties may establish an EPZ business on property it owns or
leases within the Zone provided it has applied for and obtained a Certificate of Compliance from the Export Processing Zone Committee (EPZC).

How to obtain a Certificate of Compliance from the EPZC?
Application forms may be obtained from the Belize Trade and investment Development Service.
Applicants must submit a completed application form to the Ministry of Investment and Trade with the
following supporting documents:

1. Project proposal including:
a. Physical master plan showing overall layout
b. Proposed construction schedule
c. Capital cost estimate
d. Staff and management organization e. 5 year financial projections

2. Provide copies of the company’s Memorandum & Articles of Association and Certificate of Incorporation.
3. Two bank references on the firm and its main partners
4. One Commercial reference on the firm and its main partners

Belize Trade and Investment Development Service

#14 Orchid Garden St., Belmopan, Belize
tel. (501) 823737/20178 Fax: (501) 820595
Email: beltraide@belize.gov.bz
website: www.belizeinvest.org.bz