Free Trade zones in Grecia, Costa Rica
In the last two decades, the western area of the Central Valley of Costa Rica has received a lot of attention from investors both nationally and internationally. After the boom that were the free zones in the Coyol area of Alajuela, 4 free zones arrived closer to the Grecia area. Two of them are still in the construction stage, while the other two has been active for about 5 or more years.
This places Serenity by Nature in an important geographical position that allows hotel guests to be very close to these important centers.
Next, let’s talk in more detail about these free zones and their current states. But first let’s take a very brief review of what a free trade zone is in Costa Rica.
What are free trade zones
Better known in Spanish as “Zonas Francas“, the law that regulates and creates the legal figure of ”free trade zone” was enacted in 1990. Costa Rica then had a strong local economy but sought to complement it with the search for foreign investment.
The law gives foreign investors tax exemptions, but the biggest benefits are in customs matters.
That is, companies covered by this regime can import and export without paying any type of tariffs.
An indirect but positive consequence of the law is that the design of the free zones in the last two decades has been smart. It is not only built around the needs of the industry but also complies with all the regulations required by law.
This way investors do not have to worry about other regulatory laws since it is the owners of the zones who take care of these tasks.
This development model is creating around 120,000 jobs in 2024.
Free trade zones near Grecia
Parque Activa
10 minutes from Grecia and 15 minutes from Serenity, this free zone describes itself as a “Mixed-use Industrial Park”. The park currently has some companies already in full operation.
Its location is the road that is between Greece and the Inter-American Highway.
Parque Activa not only offers a space to companies, it also offers all the necessary advice on issues of permits and procedures with the central and local government (municipality).
Visit the official website of this park here.
Green Valley Free Trade Zone
10 minutes from Greece, and 15 minutes from Serenity. This stands out for being an industrial, commercial, corporate, and urban development area.
The objective of this zone is to attract transnational corporations by offering the highest standards in terms of water treatment, traditional and alternative electricity sources, and high-level telecommunications.
It is located less than 1 kilometer from the junction between Carretera a Grecia and the Inter-American Highway. It already has at least two companies in operation, while other companies are starting operations during 2025.
You can find more information here.
Free Trade Zone Evolution
A15 minutes from Greece, and 10 minutes from Serenity. The newest one, Evolution not only aims to be a free trade zone for companies. They also seek to be a reference by providing a unique environment for the exchange of technologies and ideas through a unique design oriented to such a mission.
It is still in the construction stage, so we have to wait a while longer to have new information.
The park is on the side of the Inter-American Highway, although there is an entrance from Tacares that facilitates the arrival from Serenity.
The Evolution free zone was declared of cantonal interest by the Municipal Council of Greece.
Panduit
Panduit is a company whose property has been declared a free zone since its arrival in the country. It is one of the examples of how some companies manage to get a free zone area for being declared of interest.
Panduit was the first free zone in Greece, located in a strategic position near La Argentina, a small town just 2 kilometers from the Bernardo Soto runway.
They are dedicated to the manufacture of connectivity products, from fiber optic cables to audio and video connections.
Why Grecia?
Here are some of the reasons why Greece is perfect for this development model
Its proximity to Juan Santamaria airport.
Its multiple routes to access and exit.
Being close to the Interamerican highway that was recently widened and the highway to Caldera, one of the most important ports in Costa Rica.
The presence of a branch of the University of Costa Rica.
The participation of the Municipality of Grecia, the local government, in making decisions that facilitate the installation of these zones.
Being one of the safest areas of the country, with a balanced population of skilled and basic labor.
A stable climate and a regular geography, the canton being mostly plain.
Serenity by nature at your disposal
If you are a temporary worker or investor in one of these free trade zones and you need to be close, but at the same time you love nature and tranquility, we are your best option. Our rooms have parking, internet, breakfast and a comfortable bed.
We also have special rates for long stays. La Casita Las Veraneras has a kitchen if you are more into cooking your own dinner.
To access these free zones, you just need to drive the scenic route via Grecia or go directly to the Interamerican highway for the fast route.
If you would like to contact us for more information you can fill out the form in the Contact section or use the floating WhatsApp button on the side.
Disclaimer: This article was written by a human being. For the writing of this article, the author personally traveled to visit these free zones.
