H&CO Uruguay
Uruguay presents a remarkably stable and transparent environment for conducting business, achieving high rankings in both the rule of law and quality of life indices. The country's free-trade zone (FTZ) regime permits foreign companies to operate free from national corporate income tax, value-added tax (VAT), dividend tax, and wealth taxes within these designated zones. Furthermore, the government unequivocally guarantees the tax advantages specified in the contracts associated with the FTZ.
If you belong to a multinational company and wish to establish yourself in this market, H&CO will be your reliable partner to help you establish yourself with complete security and in compliance with the country's regulations, workforce, and the adoption of technological solutions.
Doing Business
Uruguay offers a stable, transparent business environment with strong legal protections, easy company formation, and attractive incentives such as Free Trade Zones with full tax exemptions. Its strategic location, skilled workforce, and reliable infrastructure make it a secure hub for regional and global expansion.
How to open a Business
The process includes drafting bylaws, registering with the National Trade Registry, obtaining a tax ID with the DGI, and meeting labor and compliance requirements. The setup is straightforward and supported by clear, reliable regulations.
Tax Treaty with the U.S
Uruguay and the United States do not have a double tax treaty, but they maintain a Tax Information Exchange Agreement (TIEA). This agreement facilitates cooperation on tax matters and information sharing, helping U.S. and foreign investors operate with greater transparency and compliance when doing business across both jurisdictions.
Major industries in Uruguay
Agribusiness and Food
Uruguay's agriculture and livestock sector remains foundational, with exports of beef, soybeans, rice, and forestry products.
Forestry & Cellulose
The country is a leading exporter of cellulose and wood-based products, driven by large-scale pulp production.
Technology / Global Services
Uruguay has a growing tech ecosystem with strong software exports, IT services, and global shared services centers.
Renewable Energy
Nearly 98% of Uruguay’s electricity mix comes from renewable sources like wind, hydro, and solar.
FAQs About Doing Business in Uruguay
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What incentives does Uruguay offer to foreign investors?
What incentives does Uruguay offer to foreign investors?
Uruguay provides several incentives via its “Ventanilla Única de Inversiones” (Single Investment Window), including tax benefits for industrial, commercial, or service activities.
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Can foreign companies operate in Uruguay’s Free Trade Zones?
Can foreign companies operate in Uruguay’s Free Trade Zones?
Yes. Foreign investors can set up businesses in Free Trade Zones regulated by Law 15,921, enjoying full exemptions from corporate income tax, import duties, wealth tax, and withholding dividends.
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Are there restrictions on repatriating profits from Uruguay?
Are there restrictions on repatriating profits from Uruguay?
No. Uruguay has free capital movement, no exchange-control restrictions, and allows full repatriation of profits.
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Do foreign and domestic investors receive the same treatment in Uruguay?
Do foreign and domestic investors receive the same treatment in Uruguay?
Yes. Foreign and local investors are treated equally under Uruguayan law, with no discrimination in incentives or regulatory processes.
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Is prior government approval required to invest in Uruguay?
Is prior government approval required to invest in Uruguay?
In most cases, no. You can start a business without prior authorization, and there are no limits on foreign ownership. However, for certain projects you may register with COMAP to access tax benefits.
Why Invest in Brazil?
Brazil is one of the largest economies in Latin America and the Caribbean, according to the gross domestic product (GDP) recorded in 2023. In that year, the value of goods and services produced in Brazil reached an estimated $2.12 trillion USD, based on current values.
The country boasts a diverse and robust economy driven by key industries such as agribusiness, where it leads global production and exports of soybeans, sugarcane, and coffee; mining, as the largest exporter of iron ore and a significant producer of gold, aluminum, and oil; and renewable energy, with hydropower as its main energy source and growing investments in wind, solar, and ethanol production.
This economic strength, combined with abundant natural resources and opportunities for growth, makes Brazil a prime destination for investment.
Our Offices
Uruguay
Esteban A. Elena 6405, Oficina 6
(11500) Montevideo, Uruguay
Start doing business in Uruguay
Why H&CO?
We specialize in guiding global investors, families, and multinational businesses through the complexities of cross-border investments and business expansion. With offices in over 30 countries, we are a trusted partner for those seeking to relocate, invest, or expand their business abroad providing tax, advisory, and integrated global solutions.
- 1,000+ multilingual professionals, providing local expertise with a global perspective.
- Client-focused leadership with deep industry experience in global markets.
- Forbes America’s Top 200 CPAs, 2025
- Forbes Best in State Top CPAs, 2025
- USA Today America’s Most Recommended Tax and Accounting Firms, 2025
- IPA Top 100 Accounting Firms, 2025 – Ranked #66
- IPA Fastest Growing Firms, 2025
- SFBJ Largest Accounting Firms by Billings, 2025
- SFBJ Largest Accounting Firms by CPAs, 2025

