Being in the Free Trade Zone of Manaus – that was created in 1957 – it can mean important exemptions, how the Tax on Industrialized Products (IPI), what is always advantageous for companies. However, there is not just the bonus, there is also the burden of having a factory in the region, that is distant from the most populous states and that, as a consequence, consume most of the products produced in the ZFM
The Manaus Free Trade Zone was created in 1957 with the aim of promoting the development of the region through industrialization and job creation. However, some difficulties have become evident in recent times. John Domingos, partner at BDO responsible for the Manaus branch, highlights the logistical difficulties that companies in the region face
Most people cannot imagine all the logistics involved in the transportation of goods produced in Manaus. The road and ferry transport takes, on average, 12 days to arrive in São Paulo, before being distributed to other states
Domingos explains that the lack of a broader road network and the high cost of air transport, the transport by ferry and trucks are the most sought after, although the logistics are much more time-consuming. These high transportation costs lead many companies to reassess the establishment of new businesses, since it practically nullifies part of the tax benefits, highlights
Even with all these difficulties, the revenue of companies in the Manaus Industrial Pole has grown over the past few years, with the exception of 2023 when it was practically stable. The generation of direct jobs reaches 112 thousand, number that also increases year by year. "It is an undeniable contribution to the country's economy". "That is why investing in infrastructure and new modes of transportation is essential for the ZFM to continue growing", highlights
