Foreign Trade Zone

Driving Growth
And Innovation

A Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) is a designated area in which foreign and domestic merchandise is considered by the U.S. government as being outside U.S. Customs territory. These zones can be very beneficial for companies involved in foreign trade, as merchandise may be brought into an FTZ without a formal customs entry, import quotas, and other import restrictions. Duties and excise taxes are not assessed until the merchandise enters U.S. commerce.

 

Port Houston manages Foreign Trade Zone 84, which includes many port-owned and privately owned sites located throughout Harris, Wharton, and Waller counties. Key benefits include duty elimination, duty deferral, duty exemption on re-exports, ad valorem tax relief, as well as improved cash flow and streamlined logistical benefits.

Port Houston's FTZ 84 explained

 

Application Process for FTZ

The process of obtaining Foreign Trade Zone status begins by first contacting the Port Houston Economic Development team. The Port assists with the application process, and can help companies locate consultants with the specialized knowledge for an in-depth evaluation of the risks and benefits associated with operating in a Foreign Trade Zone.

Need To Know More?

With the help of FTZ 84, existing warehouse or manufacturing sites in the Houston area can be converted to an FTZ site. Port Houston provides dedicated support throughout the FTZ implementation process. To learn more about FTZ Public Facilities, or how to get started, contact us today!
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