The industrial free zones have maintained their growth in the first half of the year, with the start-up of 22 new companies which generated RD$207,961,644. The announcement was made by the executive director of the Consejo Nacional de Zonas Francas de Exportación, Acelis Angeles. She said that during the first six months the investment in the free zones equaled RD$258,458,386 and that they have produced some 3,745 direct jobs. She also said that the development of a new free zone was approved, with an investment of RD$139,114,150, which will provide 7,234 new jobs and generate US$7,401.376.