La Zona Franca de La Candelaria S.A. User Operator, was declared under Resolution 0095 of February 10, 1993, by the Ministry of Foreign Trade, covering an area of 728,163 m2.

The first expansion as a Free Trade Zone was registered on October 12, 2005. It was authorized under Resolution 1531 of July 19, 2005, by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, covering an area of 33,751.29 square meters.

The second expansion was authorized by Resolution 14538 of December 1, 2006, by DIAN, with an area of 420,759 m2 and a reduction of 21,115.8 m2.

Following its area expansions and the strengthening of its petrochemical and logistics cluster in Cartagena, ZFLC began to consolidate itself as a strategic platform for industrial and port companies.

ZFLC has established itself as one of the most efficient Free Trade Zones in the Colombian Caribbean, thanks to

• Strategic location in the logistics-port corridor
• Road infrastructure and connectivity
• Diversification of companies (not just petrochemical)
• Growth in industrial and logistics users

It becomes the first Free Trade Zone in the country certified as carbon neutral, a recognition granted after measuring, reducing, and offsetting its environmental footprint.

Distinction awarded by ANDI, Fundación ANDI, USAID, and Portafolio, highlighting the social impact of their “Popular Entrepreneurship” program.

Award presented by Global Compact Network Colombia (UN) and the Bogotá Chamber of Commerce for compliance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Recognition granted by the Membrillal Community Action Board, highlighting the social and community contribution of the free trade zone in its area of influence.

Distinction for companies with high social commitment and contribution to community development, consolidating their institutional reputation in the region.

Initiation of innovative industrial projects, reaffirming its role as a key platform for business expansion in Cartagena.