Evolution Free Zone promotes reforestation in the Western Region with more than 3,000 native trees
26 de August de 2025
Sustainability as a Competitive Advantage in Free Trade Zones
September, 2025—Free Trade Zones (FTZs) were originally conceived to boost economic growth and employment by attracting Foreign Direct Investment through tax incentives and customs advantages. While these foundational benefits remain significant, the global business landscape has evolved. Today, investors, customers, and regulators expect companies to operate sustainably minimizing environmental impact, fostering local development, and building long-term resilience.
At Evolution Free Zone, we have embraced this shift by integrating sustainability into every dimension of our operations. From smart infrastructure to strategic community partnerships, we are cultivating a purpose-driven business ecosystem designed for lasting success.
A Strategic Edge for Modern Business
Sustainable Free Trade Zones leverage smart city technologies like IoT, data analytics, and energy monitoring, to provide businesses with immediate access to infrastructure that supports efficient resource use, optimized operations, and a reduced ecological footprint.
Beyond environmental benefits, they promote social progress by creating jobs, offering specialized training, fostering collaboration between industry and academia, and strengthening community ties. This inclusive model enhances a company’s social license to operate and builds long-term resilience.
As global regulations on climate, emissions, and supply chains become more stringent, operating within a resilient Free Trade Zone gives companies a strategic advantage. It helps organizations stay ahead of compliance requirements, thrive in markets that prioritize responsible growth, and enhance investor confidence.
How this vision comes to life in Evolution Free Zone:
We operate under the Costa Rican Free Trade Zone Regime, established by Law No. 7210 in 1990 and amended in 2010 to align with World Trade Organization (WTO) standards. This regime enables us to offer differentiated fiscal incentives for Smart Manufacturing and Medical Device companies, including up to 12 years of full income tax exemption and an additional 6 years of partial exemption for qualifying businesses; in addition to 100% exemptions across other fiscal categories.
Combined with our commitment to sustainable development, this robust legal framework positions our Next-Generation business ecosystem as an ideal ally for international competitiveness and long-term growth.
Infrastructure Built for the Future
We are a world-class business Park, driven by a long-term commitment to positive impact. One highlight is our on-site solar farm, which will supply renewable energy to all common areas—including internal roads, the main entrance, general lighting, and our water treatment plant. Additionally, 100% of treated water will be reused to irrigate green spaces throughout Evolution Free Zone, reducing consumption and minimizing our environmental footprint.
Our High-Tech Business Park is being developed as a fully intelligent business ecosystem, featuring automated systems designed to monitor and manage key operations, such as water flow, pressure levels, and pipeline integrity—ensuring efficient, and responsible resource use at every stage.
Investing in People
Located in the Western Region of Alajuela Costa Rica, Evolution Free Zone gives companies access to a highly skilled workforce and a population eager to grow and learn. We are proud to host the first specialized INA training center ever established within a business park in the country, demonstrating our commitment to education and creating real opportunities for future generations.
We believe that being a responsible Free Trade Zone also means empowering people. Through our initiatives, we contribute to quality job creation, talent development, and the improvement of living conditions in surrounding communities.
Workforce Excellence as a Strategic Asset:
- Companies within Evolution Free Zone are better positioned to attract and retain top talent, as today’s workers increasingly seek out employers aligned with their values—particularly those committed to education, community development, and environmental responsibility.
- Through our collaboration with public and private educational institutions, businesses gain access to a pipeline of talent trained in high-demand skills, enabling them to build a qualified, motivated workforce tailored to their needs.
In Summary
Operating within Evolution Free Zone gives companies a clear competitive advantage. It attracts top talent and strategic partners who prioritize sustainable practices, and facilitates access to regulated markets and global trade. Additionally, our business ecosystem supports companies in adapting to changing regulations and climate considerations, fostering long-term growth rooted in responsible and forward-thinking practices.
