Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZs) are designated areas near U.S. Customs ports of entry that are legally considered outside U.S. Customs territory. Within an FTZ, companies can import, store, assemble, or manufacture goods without immediate payment of duties, offering a strategic advantage in global trade.
Managed under the oversight of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, FTZs are secure, flexible spaces available for both public and private use. Whether your business is a growing manufacturer, importer, or distributor, operating within an FTZ can streamline operations and boost competitiveness.
Zone Types & Structure
Every FTZ site, whether a magnet or usage-driven site, must meet strict adjacent, security, and CBP oversight requirements.
This infographic outlines five powerful ways the U.S. Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) program fuels national economic growth. From increasing American job opportunities to driving local investment, boosting exports, and enhancing global competitiveness.
Jul 8, 2025
Operating within an FTZ can offer powerful advantages, cost savings, duty deferral, streamlined logistics, and enhanced inventory control. It can be a good solution for companies looking to optimize trade operations and stay competitive in a global market.
Discover the full list of FTZ benefits here.
Strategic & Economic Impact
A Foreign‑Trade Zone is a strategic tool that can help businesses scale efficiently while navigating trade uncertainties and shifting tariff policies. Especially valuable during volatile economic climates, FTZs offer a buffer against global disruptions. Beyond individual business advantages, FTZs drive local economic growth, support domestic investment, and enhance U.S. competitiveness by attracting international businesses and creating quality jobs across local communities.
This video introduces the Foreign Trade Zones program. It covers basic information such as what an FTZ is, what benefits it has to offer, and how to decide if the FTZ program is right for your business.
Whether you're interested in warehousing, manufacturing, or logistical optimization, the Kent Ottawa Muskegon Foreign-Trade Zone offers tailored solutions. We help guide businesses through the FTZ application process, benchmarking with other subzones, and ongoing zone operations.
Explore the possibilities – connect with the KOM FTZ today to assess how leveraging an FTZ can assist with your supply chain and global trade strategy.
