“Oldendorff Carriers Trinidad & Tobago Limited (OCTTL) operates a freezone in the Gulf of Paria approximately 6 nautical miles out from the Port of Point Lisas. We use the area to transfer bulk commodities such as coal, iron ore or bauxite from smaller ships originating from South and North America into large Ocean Going Vessels that bring the materials to the Far East.

As a first of its kind operation in Trinidad & Tobago the Trinidad & Tobago Freezones Company has been tremendous help in converting an idea into a successful project. The TTFZ accompanied OCTTL along the way and helped to remove red tape and overcome administrative hurdles that had to be taken especially in the start-up phase.

The TTFZ and the Freezones Act specifically cater for companies seeking the use Trinidad & Tobago to transhipment to goods from nearby countries. At the core of the Act stands the duty free import and export of goods that are not destined to stay in Trinidad & Tobago and will not enter the local market. It is only because of the TTFZ offering such a possibility for companies that OCTTL was able to successfully set up shop in Trinidad & Tobago.

In the process the TTFZ acted as valuable facilitator and advisor in finding agreement with the Customs and Excise Division to operate OCTTLs unique set up within the boundaries of the various customs regulation, helped to speedily procure work permits for expatriates and guided OCTTL through various formality and approval processes.

Furthermore, TTFZ went beyond their scope of work by standing at OCTTLs side as an advisor in regards to local regulations, labour practises and hiring of qualified local personnel urgently required for the operation. TTFZ also acted as a door opener to a network of invaluable business contacts within Trinidad & Tobago for a foreign investor.

Today TTFZ remains an active and responsive partner for OCTTL whenever help is required.”

“The Free Zone operated by Nestlé Caribbean Inc. has been conducting business since 1993, after completing the very detailed but also straightforward process to establish the entity. Throughout our experience, we received clear guidance from the Trinidad and Tobago Free Zones Company Limited (TTFZCo) to ensure compliance in all areas. Over the last 23 years, we have kept close ties with them, apart from the quarterly reporting requirements, to help us keep abreast of changes in business processes, regulations and even new business opportunities. By having and maintaining open lines of communication with the TTFZCo, we have also resolved some challenges that we faced with the interpretation of Customs regulations. As one of the larger businesses operating with the TTFZCo, we have also been referenced as a positive example for others to emulate when considering a similar business model. The team at the TTFZCo has always been very helpful and timely in all matters being worked on.”