Arturo Peguero, the president of the National Association of Free Zones, confirmed that the future looks good for the nation?s manufacturing sector. He said that free zones that last year operated at 70% capacity are now operating fully. He said the Free Trade Agreement with the United States ? which is currently pending US congressional approval ? is good news for traditional industries such as apparel, footwear and jewelry.
Peguero told Candida Acosta of the Listin Diario that the local manufacturing industries need to complete the transition to vertical production schemes in order to enhance its value-added exports.
Peguero said it is important that the government eliminate the 5% tax on exports and apply policies that improve local competitiveness. The tax is due to expire in July.