In the first quarter of 2018, commercial activity in the free zone generated $5.292 billion, 11% more than was recorded in the same period in 2017.

According to figures from the Colon Free Zone (ZLC), from January to March of 2018 imports totaled $2.427 billion and re-exports amounted to $2.866 billion, which exceeds by 8% and 14%, respectively, what was registered in the first quarter of 2017.

After the fall registered in commercial activity between the first quarters of the years 2015 and 2016, in the last two years there has been sustained growth for the periods in question.

Regarding the reported increase, Manuel Grimaldo, general manager of ZLC, told Laprensa.com that “… Sales improved because merchants are learning to diversify their merchandise and for our part we are advocating promotion fairs. “

In relation to what the FTA has planned for 2018, he added that “…‘This year we have 21 fairs scheduled and a business conference in Santo Domingo, in the Dominican Republic. The interest of this administration is in strengthening existing markets and rebounding where we have potential.’“