There are no special opportunities for trade and investment specifically directed at foreigners. However, multinational companies established in the neighboring countries are in a good position to take advantage of the Uruguayan free-trade zones, as well as of the trade agreements signed with the neighboring countries. The government welcomes foreign investors. These include utilities such as public water services, railroads, alcohol distillation, oil refining, electricity, telephone service, and issuance of mortgage bonds. Otherwise, requirements are the same as for local investors, depending on the legal form adopted by the business.
Most foreign investors operate through a wholly owned or majority-owned corporation.
It is also possible to operate through a limited liability partnership made up of foreign partners. Branches are common, but branches and limited liability partnerships h ave a different tax treatment, which, depending on the nature of the business, may or may not be advantageous. Careful tax planning is required. Setting up or acquiring The formation of a new enterprise or the acquisition of an existing Uruguayan company can be freely done. Shelf corporations already formed but with no operations are available for acquisition.