WILLEMSTAD - Prime Minister of Curaçao, Gilmar Pisas, officially inaugurated the XXVII Ibero-American Free Trade Zones Conference. The three-day event, which brings together leaders from the global Free Trade Zone (FTZ) industry, kicked off with great anticipation. Organized by the Association of Ibero-American Free Trade Zones (AZFA) in collaboration with CURINDE, the prestigious conference is being held in Willemstad, Curaçao, from November 13 to 15, 2024.
The opening ceremony began with an inspiring address led by Pastor R.P. Raul Mercedes and Mr. Vladimil Jimenez, setting a visionary tone for the event. Notable speakers included Blanca Sorigué, Vice President of the World Freezone Organization, and Claudia Pellerano, President of AZFA. A significant moment during the ceremony was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Magrid and Curaçao's Minister of Education, Culture, and Sports, Sithree Van Heydoorn. This signing took place in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Louis of Luxembourg, Prime Minister Pisas, Parliament President Charetti Francisca, Minister Charles Cooper, and Minister Shalten Hato, emphasizing the collaborative and international nature of the conference.
AZFA is a renowned non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the Free Trade Zone framework across Latin America and the Caribbean. Through strategic integration, research, and collaboration with both public and private sectors, AZFA enhances the competitiveness of Free Trade Zones in 23 countries across Latin America, the Caribbean, and Spain. Representing over 800 Free Trade Zones and 10,000 businesses, AZFA stands as the most influential organization in the FTZ industry in the region.
The conference offers a unique platform for connecting operators, investors, government officials, consultants, and industry suppliers, fostering dialogue on innovation and the evolving landscape of Free Trade Zones in the Ibero-American region. This year’s agenda features a wide range of topics led by industry experts and government officials, including introductions from Curaçao's Minister of Economic Development, Charles Cooper, and Minister of Finance, Javier Silvania.
The event aims to stimulate discussions on current trends and future developments within the Free Trade Zone industry, providing valuable insights and networking opportunities for participants from around the world.
Key Topics to be Discussed at the Conference:
Technology and Innovation - Showcasing innovative solutions to enhance the competitiveness of Free Trade Zones.
Sustainability - Exploring sustainable practices for long-term growth.
Human Capital Development - Investing in talent to drive the future of the industry.
Success Stories of Nearshoring - Analyzing the role of nearshoring in reducing costs and improving delivery times.
Global Geopolitical Trends - Evaluating the impact of global changes on FTZ operations.
Investment and International Trade Flows - Providing insights to promote solid exchange among associations.
Secure Ecosystems and Artificial Intelligence - Utilizing AI for enhanced security and optimal operations.
With sessions, panels, and networking opportunities, the XXVII Ibero-American Free Trade Zones Conference offers a strategic platform for participants to gain valuable insights and establish relationships that will drive growth and innovation in the FTZ sector.
