The WFZO is a not-for-profit body that provides one authoritative, collective voice representing the interests of free zones around the world. The organization was established in the Canton of Geneva, Switzerland, and is headquartered in Dubai UAE.

The WFZO was officially launched in Dubai, UAE, on May 19, 2014.

The growth of the free zones in recent decades now requires a global organization to take stock of this important economic phenomenon and to lead on the progress of free zone expansion and development. The WFZO is the first organization that will bring together these diverse free zones to promote the exchange of views, best practice, experience and knowledge and ensures the sustainability and ongoing success of the free zone model

The WFZO seeks to: Provide one, authoritative, collective voice to represent the interests of free zones around the world Create best in class standards for free zones to enhance the economic ecosystem both globally and locally Enhance the perception of free zones as enabling sustainable businesses and contributing to the local and global economy Facilitate the continued growth and expansion of free zones internationally Bring in-depth experience to positively influence members and free zones around the world Provide a forum for free zones around the world to learn, grow and prosper through unrivalled access to exclusive in-depth research, insights and knowledge Facilitate networking and the exchange of experience, knowledge and best practices through research, data and networking events Be the official advocate of free zones before governments and international organizations

As a not-for-profit organization, all income generated will be used to cover its costs and in the development of services provided to members.

WFZO members are representatives of local, regional and international established free zones, as well as individuals and entities working in the free zone environment, or in support of free zones internationally

Membership is open to free zones in any country that are members of the United Nations. Membership will be extended to both individuals and entities (public or private) that prove interest in the promotion and development of free zones Members can be grouped into three different categories: Free zones and Free zone associations Individuals and entities working in free zone environment: lawyers, consultants, government agencies, chambers of commerce, private corporations, academics, etc International multilateral organizations such as UN Agencies, the World Customs Organization, and World Trade Organization

Several levels of membership are available including: Voting members: open to governmentally-recognized free zones and free zone associations who have full voting rights within the General Assembly, enabling them to contribute to decisions around Board member appointments. Voting members will also gain access to the WFZO’s full range of membership services, including industry research, operational and administrative support services, high-level training, networking services and events Associate members: open to individual or corporate users of free zones and consultants and advisors working with and within free zones. Paid membership will give access to a full range of membership services Partners and observers: open to non-government organizations involved in the area of international trade, as well as government and quasi government authorities in trade or customs. Partners and Observers will be individually invited to participate in the activities of the Association by the Board of Directors and will not be subject to the payment of membership fees. Partners and Observers will only have limited access to Member Services and will have no voting rights

Potential members can apply through the WFZO website by clicking here