In Grand Bahama Island

About The Port Authority Group Of Companies

The Port Authority Group of Companies is comprised of the Grand Bahama Development Company (DEVCO) and various utility companies. Sir Jack Hayward is Chairman of The Grand Bahama Development Company, Mr. Edward St. George is Co-Chairman of the Grand Bahama  Port Authority, and Sir Albert Miller is President and Co-Chairman of the Port Authority.  Since 1996, Hutchison Whampoa, a Hong Kong conglomerate, acquired an interest in several Port Group companies including the Grand Bahama International Airport, Lucayan Harbour and the Grand Bahama Development Company.  Hutchison, through a subsidiary company, is also involved in creating the Our Lucaya Resort.

For more information contact:

GRAND BAHAMA PORT AUTHORITY
P.O. Box F-42666
Freeport
Grand Bahama Island
The Bahamas
Tel: 242-352-6711
Fax: 242-352-9864
Email:

BUSINESS LICENSES

Persons wishing to engage in business within the Freeport/Lucaya area must receive a business license. An application form can be obtained from:

Freeport/Lucaya was established in August 1955, following enactment of the Hawksbill Creek Agreement granting the Grand Bahama Port Authority Limited (GBPA) the exclusive right to develop some 150,000 acres of land located in the centre of the island for commercial and residential use. In return, the GBPA agreed to dredge a deep water harbour, construct an airport, hospitals, and schools. As an added incentive, the Bahamas Government granted the GBPA responsibility for administration of the 230 square-mile free trade zone Port area, which includes the right to issue business licenses, own and operate casinos and establish tourism. A master plan of the Port Area was drawn up allocating specific zones for industrial, residential, tourism and institutional use, all of which is adhered to today.

The Hawksbill Creek Agreement guaranteed freedom from taxes until 2015 and from excise taxes, stamp duties and most customs duties until 2054.