On 2 September 2026, a high-level interministerial meeting chaired by Prime Minister Manuel Osa Nsue Nsua was held at the Government Presidency in Malabo II to strategize the operational rollout of Law No. 8/2026, dated 30 June 2026, the General Law of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in the Republic of Equatorial Guinea. The legislation, recently assented to by the Head of State, establishes a comprehensive legal regime for the creation, management, and fiscal incentivization of designated economic zones aimed at diversifying the economy beyond hydrocarbons. The meeting analyzed the strategic roadmap for regulatory development, institutional coordination, and investor onboarding processes.
Key Takeaways
- Comprehensive Tax Incentive Package: The SEZ Law provides for a reduced corporate income tax rate (potentially as low as 0–10% for qualifying activities), full exemption from import duties and VAT on capital goods and raw materials, and accelerated depreciation allowances. These incentives are designed to attract foreign direct investment in manufacturing, logistics, technology, and services.
- Customs and Regulatory Autonomy: SEZs will operate under a special customs regime allowing duty-free import/export of goods within the zone, streamlined single-window clearance, and regulatory sandboxes for fintech and digital services. Businesses must obtain a SEZ operator license and comply with local content and employment quotas.
- Implementation Timeline and Compliance: The government is expected to issue implementing decrees defining zone boundaries, sectoral eligibility, and application procedures by Q4 2026. Investors should prepare detailed project proposals demonstrating technology transfer, job creation, and export orientation to qualify for the fiscal benefits.
Disclaimer: This article is compiled and summarized by the AI based on publicly available information and is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute any form of formal tax advice, legal opinion, or basis for performance. Please consult a qualified professional tax advisor or legal counsel for tax advice.
Source: Read Official Announcement