Each year, the UK-based international investment publication fDi Intelligence releases its “Global Free Zones of the Year” report, evaluating the performance and impact of special economic zones (SEZs) around the world across multiple categories.
In this year’s edition, the Ventspils Freeport Authority was highlighted and received special recognition for its sector-oriented investment attraction strategy.
The “Global Free Zones of the Year” study assesses SEZs in several categories – Best Industrial Zones, Best Training Zones, Rising Stars, and Most Sustainable Zones. In each category, two leaders are chosen across four world regions – the Middle East, Europe, Africa & Pacific, and the Americas (North and South America) – along with global category winners.
In addition, the publication recognizes overall winners and zones with special commendations for outstanding performance in specific initiatives. This year, Ventspils Freeport was among those commended – the only special economic zone in the Baltic States to receive such recognition in 2025.
Jury member Joy Priya praised the Ventspils Freeport Authority, emphasizing that the port had adopted a specifically designed, sector-focused investment and cluster development strategy targeting key renewable energy, ICT, and manufacturing sectors within its zone.
“This includes tailored incentives, infrastructure resources, and services, as well as marketing activities aligned with the clusters they aim to develop,” said Priya.
fDi Intelligence has previously recognized the achievements of Ventspils Freeport. In 2024, the port received a special mention for its involvement in developing offshore wind energy projects in the Baltic Sea region. In 2019, it was named the best location worldwide for large tenant business development and the second-best in Europe for the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises. (BNN)