MAKE Financial Technologies SEZC will soon become the first physical business to establish operations within Anguilla’s special economic zone.
The company runs a platform for the global creator economy, developed by fintech executive James Francisco Turner Lazaro.
As part of its initial footprint, MAKE is in the process of establishing a customer support centre in Anguilla that will hire up to 15 employees with plans for future expansion.
Special economic zones (SEZ) are designated areas within a country or territory that operate under different economic regulations.
They offer favourable tax and regulatory conditions in order to attract foreign investment, boost trade or encourage economic development.
SEZ meeting
On Monday, 28 April, Lazaro from MAKE met with Premier Cora Richardson-Hodge, economic development minister Kyle Hodge, and trade and investment officer Jamil Harrigan.
Also joining the meeting were Christopher Burke of global digital bank EQIBank, and Steve Garlick, Ron Cho and Michael Glass who are the owners and operators of AZUR SEZ.
AZUR SEZ is a virtual platform that allows individuals to register and manage businesses online, without the need for Anguilla residency.
It was established after the Special Economic Zone Act was passed in March 2020, as a way to attract remote businesses and stimulate economic activity during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“This meeting was an important moment to officially welcome the teams, discuss future collaboration, and encourage strong local support,” a government press release said.
Future of SEZ
The press release added that the AZUR SEZ and MAKE teams will meet with various government ministries while in Anguilla.
Lazaro will also secure a lease agreement to house the call centre which is expected to be in operation within a few months.
The company intends to partner closely with the Ministry of Education and local higher education institutions to recruit and develop local talent for the centre.
During a government press conference on 28 April, Premier Cora Richardson-Hodge called the move a “major milestone” in Anguilla’s economic development.
She added: “This administration is proud to welcome MAKE to Anguilla, and we view this development as a catalyst for innovation, youth employment and sustainable economic growth.”
