In today’s rapidly changing global trade environment, companies need ways to stay competitive, flexible, and cost-efficient. One of the most strategic tools for achieving that is Foreign Trade Zone #219 (FTZ #219)—a federally designated area in Yuma County, Arizona that empowers businesses to import, manufacture, store, and re-export goods without immediate customs duties or taxes.
FTZ #219 allows companies to operate as if they were outside U.S. customs territory, giving them the ability to defer, reduce, or even eliminate certain costs associated with international trade.
A Strategic Location for North American Trade
Located near the U.S.-Mexico border, FTZ #219 bridges two of North America’s most dynamic economies. Just minutes from Mexicali and San Luis Río Colorado, the zone provides seamless access for manufacturers and distributors operating on both sides of the border.
Whether you’re a U.S. firm expanding into Mexico or a Mexican manufacturer seeking entry into the U.S. market, Yuma’s FTZ offers a unique logistical advantage—helping businesses move goods faster, streamline compliance, and strengthen their binational operations.
The Advantages of Operating in FTZ #219
Businesses in the Greater Yuma FTZ benefit from a suite of financial and operational incentives designed to enhance global competitiveness:
- Up to 78% reduction in property taxes for qualifying real and personal property (specific to Arizona).
- Duty deferral and reduction: Choose whether to pay duties on raw materials or final goods, whichever rate is lower.
- No duties on defective, obsolete, or damaged goods, saving costs on scrap and returns.
- Weekly Customs Entry Filing: Pay duties once per week instead of per shipment, simplifying accounting and reducing fees.
- Unlimited storage keep goods on site indefinitely without the pressure to re-export or move inventory.
- On-site flexibility: Inspect, relabel, repackage, assemble, or manufacture without triggering duties.
- No labeling burden: Country-of-origin labels are not required at entry.
These benefits collectively translate into faster logistics, lower costs, and a stronger competitive position for companies in manufacturing, e-commerce, logistics, cold storage, or cross-border trade.
Who Can Benefit from FTZ #219?
The FTZ is ideally suited for a wide range of industries that depend on international supply chains or cross-border trade, including:
- Advanced and precision manufacturing
- E-commerce fulfillment and logistics centers
- Cold storage and agriculture-related distribution
- Automotive and component assembly
- Maquiladora partners and binational operations
For companies looking to expand or relocate to Arizona, FTZ #219 provides a unique opportunity to save significantly while operating at the heart of the U.S.-Mexico trade corridor.
How It Works: From Application to Operation
The process to join FTZ #219 is straightforward and fully supported by the Greater Yuma Economic Development Corporation (GYEDC), the official grantee and administrator.
- Apply: Submit a letter of interest and site proposal for your U.S.-based facility.
- Activate: Work with the FTZ administrator and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to ensure compliance.
- Operate: Begin manufacturing, labeling, and shipping from your site under FTZ procedures.
- Save: Enjoy the benefits of deferred duties, tax relief, and streamlined logistics.
Currently, FTZ #219 encompasses five subzones and 1,930 acres of activated land—ample space to accommodate companies of varying size and scope.
A Binational Growth Platform
The FTZ isn’t just a trade zone—it’s a binational growth platform that enhances collaboration between U.S. and Mexican industries. Companies can leverage the zone’s cross-border proximity to tap into Mexico’s manufacturing ecosystem while maintaining U.S. market access, enabling “nearshoring” advantages that are driving today’s global supply chain realignments.
As North American manufacturing continues to expand, Yuma’s FTZ #219 is becoming a cornerstone for companies looking to balance global reach with regional resilience.
A Competitive Edge for Global Companies
In an era defined by trade complexities and rising costs, Foreign Trade Zone #219 offers a powerful solution: operate locally, compete globally.
Whether your goal is to reduce tariffs, simplify logistics, or expand into new markets, Greater Yuma provides the location, leadership, and infrastructure to help your business grow—with the added advantage of cross-border synergy and unparalleled access to North American trade routes.
Partnering for Growth
The Greater Yuma Economic Development Corporation (GYEDC) serves as the official grantee and local point of contact for all FTZ-related inquiries. GYEDC assists businesses throughout the process—from site selection and application to activation and long-term compliance.
For more information on how FTZ #219 can enhance your company’s competitiveness, click here or contact:
Greg LaVann
928.782.7774 | glavann@greateryuma.org
https://greateryuma.org/foreign-trade-zone.html
