Free Zones in Ireland

Free zones in Ireland refer to commercial areas in which the companies operate in a limited number of similar industries. The free zones have as a main advantage the specific infrastructure tailored to address the needs of the respective industries, as well as numerous tax advantages, which are only applicable for the companies included in the respective area. Our team of Irish lawyers can offer legal assistance to the investors who want to establish a company in the free zones available here. 

The Shannon Free Zone in Ireland  

Ireland represents one of the most attractive business markets in Europe, as it offers numerous incentives for both local and foreign companies. One of the highlights of the incentives availale here refers to the corporate tax, which is imposed at the rate of 12.5%. The Shannon Free Zone (FZ) in Ireland applies the same corporate tax, the former 10% manufacturing/Shannon rate ended on 31 December 2010 and is no longer available. 

The Shannon FZ represents the world’s first free zone and it was established at the end of the 1950s. 

More information on the Irish Free Zones are available in the video below: 

The main activities which can be carried out in the Shannon Free Zone refer to the following: 

• repair and maintenance of aircraft;

• various trading activities, which have to be approved by the Ministry of Finance;

• manufacture of products related to the industries which can perform business activities in the free zone;

• activities related to the intellectual property rights. 

It is important to know that more than 100 companies are operating in the Shannon FZ, employing more than 7,000 persons. Our team of lawyers in Ireland can offer legal advice on the employment regulations available here. 

Free zones – tax advantages in Ireland  

Companies operating in the Irish FZ can obtain numerous tax advantages. For example, goods placed in the free zone benefit from suspension of customs duty and import VAT while they remain there. 

At the same time, they can obtain grants for the following corporate aspects: 

• employment;

• research and development;

• training.

Businessmen are invited to contact our Irish law firm for more information on the free zones available in Ireland.