The World Trade Center (WTC) Punta del Este Free Zone was officially inaugurated on December 16, 2025, marking a significant milestone for Punta del Este and the Maldonado Department. This development represents the first services-focused free trade zone in Maldonado, positioning the region as a new destination for international business, investment, and professional services in Uruguay.
The inauguration took place in mid-December and brought together national authorities, local government officials, and business representatives, highlighting the importance of the project not only for Punta del Este but for the country’s broader economic strategy. Information reported by Montevideo Portal, El País, and Correo de Punta del Este emphasizes that the WTC Punta del Este aims to diversify the region’s economy, traditionally centered on tourism, by promoting high-value service exports and foreign investment.
A Strategic Free Zone in the Heart of Punta del Este
According to El País, the WTC Punta del Este operates under Uruguay’s free zone regime, specifically designed for service-based companies. The complex is located on Avenida Gorlero, one of Punta del Este’s main avenues, placing it in a central and highly visible area of the city.
The building is a 27-story tower developed to host companies working in areas such as technology, finance, consulting, and other professional services. The project was conceived to attract both Uruguayan and international firms, offering modern infrastructure and the regulatory advantages associated with free trade zones in Uruguay.
More details about the project, its infrastructure, and its business model are available on the official website: https://www.wtcpuntadelestefreezone.com
Inauguration Ceremony and Political Context
The inauguration ceremony was attended by President Yamandú Orsi, as well as local authorities from the Maldonado Department. During the event, speeches highlighted the long development process behind the project and the political discussions that accompanied its approval.
Former Maldonado Intendant Enrique Antía addressed the challenges faced during the planning and authorization stages of the new WTC Free Zone in Punta del Este. As reported by Montevideo Portal, Antía recalled that the project generated strong criticism and opposition at different moments, yet ultimately moved forward and became a reality. His remarks underscored the persistence required to establish a free zone of this scale in Punta del Este.
President Orsi emphasized the importance of public-private collaboration and pointed out that Punta del Este has the potential to grow beyond its traditional image as a seasonal tourist destination. According to Correo de Punta del Este, the President described the WTC as a tool to strengthen Uruguay’s position in international services and innovation.
Investment and Employment Expectations for the WTC Punta del Este
Reports from Montevideo Portal and El País indicate that the World Trade Center Punta del Este represents an investment of tens of millions of dollars and is expected to have a meaningful impact on employment in the region.
At the time of inauguration:
- Approximately 25 companies were already linked to the project.
- The complex is projected to generate around 1,300 to 1,400 jobs once it reaches full operation.
- Initial activity will involve several hundred workers, with growth expected as more companies establish operations within the free zone.
These projections position the WTC Punta del Este as a relevant driver of job creation and economic diversification in Maldonado, especially in sectors related to knowledge-based and exportable services.
What This Means for Punta del Este and Expats
For Punta del Este, the opening of the World Trade Center Free Zone represents a shift toward a more diversified and year-round economic model. By attracting service companies and international professionals, the project seeks to complement tourism with long-term business activity.
For expats living in Uruguay or considering relocation, the WTC Punta del Este signals growing opportunities in areas such as professional services, technology, and international business, all within a city already known for its infrastructure and international character.
Those interested in learning more about the World Trade Center Punta del Este, including its services and operating model, can find official information at: https://www.wtcpuntadelestefreezone.com
If you’re an expat living in Uruguay or considering a move to Punta del Este, platforms like UruXpat bring together practical resources, local insights, and updates on projects shaping life and business in the region. You can explore more articles and guides related to living, working, and investing in Uruguay at https://uruxpat.com/
Sources
- Montevideo Portal – “‘Nos putearon en todos los colores’: Antía en inauguración de nuevo WTC en Punta del Este” – https://www.montevideo.com.uy/Noticias/-Nos-putearon-en-todos-los-colores–Antia-en-inauguracion-de-nuevo-WTC-en-Punta-del-Este-uc946787
- El País Uruguay – “Se inauguró el World Trade Center de Punta del Este: cómo es la nueva zona franca de Maldonado” – https://www.elpais.com.uy/negocios/empresas/se-inauguro-el-world-trade-center-de-punta-del-este-como-es-la-nueva-zona-franca-de-maldonado
- Correo Punta del Este – “Presidente Orsi inauguró el World Trade Center Punta del Este, primera zona franca de servicios en el departamento” – https://correopuntadeleste.com/presidente-orsi-inauguro-el-world-trade-center-punta-del-este-primera-zona-franca-de-servicios-en-el-departamento/
- World Trade Center Punta del Este – Official Website – https://wtcpuntadelestefreezone.com/
