Develop your international business from your office at WTC Punta del Este Free Zone and access the tax benefits of Uruguay’s Free Trade Zone regime, with infrastructure and services for your team.
With 40 years in force, the Act reflects stability and broad political consensus nationwide.
Today, Free Trade Zones have become a key driver of the country's economy.
Broad tax exemptions, including Corporate Income Tax (IRAE), VAT and Wealth Tax, on authorized activities. In addition, the State guarantees users the benefits and exemptions provided for by law throughout the term of their contract, which may be up to 10 years.
Foreign employees can choose not to contribute to the Uruguayan Social Security System, which allows them to pay just a flat rate of 12% of their salary.
Absolute freedom of movement of capital; no restrictions on foreign asset transactions
Flexibility in hiring foreign personnel: service companies may have up to 50% foreign personnel throughout the term of the contract.
This list should help companies better understand how a Free Trade Zone works and the implications of operating under Act 15,921.
Act 15,921, enacted in 1987, regulates Free Trade Zones in Uruguay. Its main aim is to promote investment, create jobs and boost exports, by providing companies with an environment with tax and customs benefits.
User companies have access to broad exemptions from national taxes, including Corporate Income Tax (IRAE), VAT and Wealth Tax on authorized activities, as well as customs benefits.
Any domestic or foreign company may set up at WTC Punta del Este Free Zone, provided it meets the regime's requirements and its activity is approved by the regulatory authority.
WTC Punta del Este Free Zone can host international services and trading activities, including corporate, technology, financial and professional services, as well as other activities focused on international markets.
Companies must enter into a contract with the Free Trade Zone Developer and obtain approval from the regulatory authority. They must also comply with the investment, employment and activity commitments established in their project.
Goods entering or leaving the Free Trade Zone operate under a special customs regime, with specific controls and formalities.
Companies may operate in the Uruguayan market under the conditions established by applicable regulations. Goods and services will receive the tax treatment applicable in each case.
Contracts may have terms of up to 10 years, depending on the type of activity and user, with the possibility of requesting extensions or longer terms in the cases provided for by applicable regulations.