New Special Economic Zones Announced

Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Mozambique are governed by Decree No. 60/2016 of 12 December, which sets objectives, benefits, licensing procedures, and oversight for activities carried out in these territories.

The regime aims to attract productive investment, technology transfer, and job creation, with differentiated incentives for projects meeting location, sector, and capital volume criteria.

The Investment and Export Promotion Agency of Mozambique (APIEX) serves as the interface between investors and the State, supporting opportunity identification, project registration, and access to benefits under investment legislation.

In 2026, APIEX continues to publish information on licensed zones and priority corridors, including updated materials at apiex.gov.mz for domestic and foreign investors.

Nampula Province holds significant logistics assets — the Port of Nacala, rail corridor, and proximity to interior markets — making it a target for agro-industrial, logistics, and processing projects.

Tete lies in a region rich in water and energy resources, linked to the Moatize corridor and agro-livestock activity. Investors assess these provinces within the SEZ and Investment Code framework without assuming automatic benefits.

SEZ benefits may include temporary reductions or exemptions on income tax, differentiated customs duties on investment equipment, and administrative simplification — always subject to formal project approval.

Compliance with local content, employment, and financial reporting obligations is monitored by competent authorities. Incentives do not apply retroactively and do not replace environmental or sector licenses.

Before committing capital, seek formal guidance from APIEX, engage local legal counsel, and confirm tax treatment with the Tax Authority.

This article summarizes publicly available framework information and does not constitute legal advice or a guarantee of project approval.