After initial enquiry, investors submit a 2-3 page project proposal to EPZA outlining the product or service, production process, destination markets including desired domestic (East Africa) sales %, project cost, financing structure, location and premises desired, proposed employment, and technology to be transferred. Upon receipt, the proposal is reviewed and blank application forms provided, along with a dummy application and guidelines for completing the application correctly.

Click here to fill in the Project Proposal Form

The investor returns the completed application forms with supporting documentation such as bank references, implementation timetable and letters from prospective export buyers, to the Authority with a U$S 250 application fee in respect of each application. Criteria used to evaluate applications include export orientation, new investment, backward linkages, employment creation and export expansion/diversification.

Investors are advised of the outcome within 30 days and given a letter of approval in principle, after which the investor incorporates a local EPZ company and pays an annual licence fee of US $ 1000 for a 12 month renewable licence to start operations within the selected zone. The new EPZ company may now occupy zone premises, import machinery, employ staff and commence operations.

Application for EPZ Enterprise Licence - Manufacturing

Guidelines for EPZ Enterprise Licence - Manufacturing

Application for EPZ Enterprise Licence - Commercial
Guidelines for EPZ Enterprise Licence - Commercial

Application for EPZ Enterprise Licence - Services

Operating enterprises are required to submit quarterly and annual returns to EPZ Authority, by 15th of month following quarter and by 15th January respectively.

Click here for quarterly return form

Click here for annual return form