Green freeports
Green Freeports are designed to boost innovation and inclusive growth within communities, while supporting Fair Work First practices, creating new green jobs, upholding the highest environmental protections and supporting economic transformation.
Working in partnership with the UK Government, we have adapted the UK Government’s freeport model to develop a sustainable and fair Green Freeport model that fits the Scottish context.
A Green Freeport is a large zoned area within a defined boundary which includes a rail, sea or airport. Operators and businesses in the zone can benefit from a package of tax and other incentives through a combination of devolved and reserved levers.
Green Freeports will have to contribute to four key policy objectives:
- promoting regeneration and high-quality job creation – our lead policy objective
- promoting decarbonisation and a just transition to a net zero economy
- establishing hubs for global trade and investment
- fostering an innovative environment
Up to two Green Freeport designations will awarded in Scotland through an open, transparent and competitive process. The bidding window for Green Freeports is now closed. Winning bids will be announced later in the summer.
Correspondence
The Green Freeports joint working agreement between the Scottish and UK Governments is set out in an exchange of letters. Both letters have been published and are available below: