By Francis Igata

ENUGU — People of the South-East geopolitical zone have tasked the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari on the implementation of Enugu Free Trade Zone, FTZ, which was approved last May, by former President Goodluck Jonathan.

A FTZ is a geographic area where goods may be landed, handled, manufactured or reconfigured, and re-exported without the intervention of the customs authorities.

Only when the goods are moved to consumers within the country in which the zone is located do they become subject to the prevailing customs duties. FTZs are organized around major seaports, international airports, and national frontiers —areas with many geographic advantages for trade.

Free trade zones can also be defined as labour-intensive manufacturing centres that involve the import of raw materials or components and the export of factory products.

However, the FTZ would serve as a catalyst to guarantee easier flow of investment and enhanced industrial activities in the comatose region.

Former Governor Sullivan Chime had announced the approval for the establishment of the Enugu F TZ during the commissioning ceremony of Sunrise Flour Mills Enugu, last May.

ECCIMA urges action

South East Voice spoke to the Secretary, Enugu State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, ECCIMA, Mr. Emeke Okereke who was elated over the approval noting that when operational, it will eradicate issues arising from multiple taxation and levies which had hitherto, hindered economic growth and development of the South East region.