Find the Best Economic Incentives in The US
Trade Council of the Marianas
Committed to find or to be the answer to CNMI’s economic growth.
Trade Council Leadership presents to legislature
On February 11, 2025, the Trade Council’s President and Vice President, Vin Armani and Joshua Cook respectively had a very productive conversation with the House of Representatives. Their support for this economic engine is and will continue to be crutial to it’s success .
January’s Presentation
On Wednesday, January 15th at 6pm, the Trade Council presented a “once in a generation” opportunity for CNMI. We shared how the economic incentive district will be another pillar of the economy with a zero-dollar budget.
Most Tax-Friendly economic incentive district
We have yet to find a more advantageous tax jurisdiction. CNMI’s EIDs are under U.S. protection, within U.S. jurisdiction, exempt from the Jones Act. By law the Commonwealth Economic Incentive Authority (CEIA) is mandated to expedite permitting and offers incredible tax exemptions, not to mention significant tax rebates. The CNMI is looking for businesses that are environmentally friendly, non-labor intensive, require high levels of skill, will provide training and/or will provide future job opportunities.
The Trade Council of the Mariana’s mission includes helping businesses cut through the uncertainties of doing business in the CNMI’s Economic Incentive Districts. We provide businesses what they need to legally and accurately source revenue from the EID, availing of the exemptions and get the world’s best corporate tax benefits.
The Trade Council’s Role
The Trade Council of the Marianas is separate from the Commonwealth Economic Incentive Authority (CEIA). The Trade Council exists as a non-profit to support both the CEIA and businesses. We support the Authority fulfill their mandate to urgently market and facilitate the growth of the EID. We help businesses who would like experts to navigate the nuances of the CNMI’s requirements.
TCM Membership
Memberships are available to all (non-exclusive) who would like to do business in the EIDs or help further the business, commercial and economic interests of the CNMI. Members do not need to be Economic Incentive District License holders, however; members will have the Trade Council’s assistance in applying for a license.
Note: Membership fees are considered non-profit 501(c)(3) donations.
Economic Incentive District Authority
The Commonwealth Economic Incentive Authority (CEIA) is the public entity established to make the EID business-friendly and issue EID licenses. CNMI’s EID offers one-of-a-kind tax exemptions and unique incentives for operating in the CNMI.
EID License Benefits
The CEIA can issue a license with EID benefits for up to 20 years. These may include:
- Low effective corporate tax rates. (3-9%)
- Waived Business Gross Revenue Tax (5% BGRT)
- Expedited zoning and permitting (mandated by PL 12-20)
- Waived excise tax on certain goods (see 4 CMC § 51136(c))
EID License Applications
Economic Incentive License applications will soon be available on the Authority’s website www.ceia.mp. Applications are reviewed by the Authority’s Board. “Any person may apply…to establish and operate a business, industrial or commercial activity” (4 CMC § 51134) in a CNMI EID.
EIDs will continue to be established on Saipan, Tinian, Rota and the Northern Islands as needed.
Good Standing
Licenses will remain in good standing as long as business activity is lawful, CNMI-sourced taxes are paid and EID yearly compliance fees are paid. See more in the terms and conditions of the EID license.
Membership Benefits
The Trade Council is well-connected and has already developed tremendous goodwill in the CNMI. We work with trusted vendors to help provide a seamless experience. Here are some of the services we offer:
Tax Sourcing Requirements
Source your revenue the right way and avoid legal trouble down the road.
Staffing Solutions
If you want to hire locally or find H1-B professionals, rather than relocate existing team members, we can help work through local and federal requirements.
Entity Incorporation
When you need a Certificate of Authority for a foreign corporation or a new entity registered with the local registry, we will file all the documents and cover the necessary fees.
Professional Rolodex
Our local partnerships provide a seamless experience for those looking to set up a business in the EID. Get access to the best talent, lawyers, CPAs and more.
Local Guide & POC
CNMI is filled with opportunity if you know where to look and what to look for. Skip the learning curve and get help from our team of locals.
Trade Council Network
Most problems are best solved by answering the question of “who?” rather than “what?”. When it comes to the you needs in the EID, we know the who.
And Much More
FTZ License Application
Mailing Address
Physical Address
Office Space & Wifi
Local Phone Number
Receptionist (Optional)
Registered Agent
NMI Bank Account
Zoning Permit
CNMI Business Registration Fees
Business License Fees