To operate directly within the adjacent 35-hectare logistics park and secure 0% tax exemptions, you must first establish a legal entity in Panama and then apply for formal affiliation with the Barú Free Zone Board.
Step 1: Corporate Incorporation in Panama
Before applying to the free zone, a licensed Panamanian lawyer (acting as your mandatory Resident Agent) must register your corporate entity:
- Choose an Entity: Most foreign investors opt for a standard Corporation (Sociedad Anónima – S.A.).
- Structure the Board: Appoint a minimum of three directors (can be any nationality) and a Resident Agent.
- Execute the Articles: Draft and notarize the Articles of Incorporation via a Public Deed.
- Public Registry Filing: Register the deed at the Panama Public Registry to obtain your corporate identification (“Folio”) number.
Step 2: Barú Free Zone Affiliation Process
Once your company is incorporated, you must submit a formal petition to the Junta Directiva de Zona Franca de Barú containing:
- Legal Credentials: A power of attorney, an authenticated copy of the Pacto Social (Articles of Incorporation), and a Public Registry Certification (issued within the last 4 months).
- Operational Framework: A comprehensive Executive Summary detailing the specific industrial, commercial, or logistical activities you will execute.
- Financial Commitments: A binding Investment Timeline outlining your planned capital expenditures.
- Due Diligence: Official commercial and bank reference letters, alongside your corporate Tax Compliance certificate (Paz y Salvo).
- Real Estate Proof: A formalized lease agreement or property title deed verifying your assigned space inside the logistics park zone.
- Environmental Impact: An authorized environmental mitigation and risk analysis report.
If you have further questions, contact Zona France de Baru HERE
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