Department of Commerce Considers Subzone Status for Samsung Facility in Texas

Introduction

On November 3, 2026, the Department of Commerce published a notice in the Federal Register regarding an application submitted by the Metroplex International Trade Development Corporation. The grantee of Foreign-Trade Zone 168 formally requested subzone status for the facility operated by Samsung Electro-Mechanics America, Incorporated, located in Wilmer, Texas. The application was formally docketed on October 28, 2026, triggering a standard review process and inviting public commentary.

Background and Regulatory Framework

The application is governed by the Foreign-Trade Zones Act and the corresponding regulations enforced by the Foreign-Trade Zones Board. Foreign-Trade Zones are secure areas reviewed by the federal government and treated as being outside the customs territory of the United States. Businesses operating within these zones can defer, reduce, or exempt certain customs duties on foreign merchandise.

The proposed subzone encompasses a compact 0.69-acre site situated at 1200 Fulghum Road in Wilmer, Texas. Federal records indicate that the applicant has not requested authorization for production activity at this time. Consequently, the initial phase focuses strictly on logistical and warehousing designation under the existing activation limit of Foreign-Trade Zone 168.

Review Process and Public Participation

In accordance with established administrative procedures, Camille Evans of the Foreign-Trade Zones Board staff has been designated as the examiner. Evans is responsible for reviewing the application details and formulating recommendations for the Executive Secretary of the Board.

The public comment phase is currently open for interested parties, industry stakeholders, and local entities. Submissions must be directed to the Executive Secretary of the FTZ Board via electronic mail by the closing deadline of December 14, 2026. Furthermore, provision has been made for rebuttal comments, which will be accepted through December 28, 2026. Review copies of the application are accessible to the public through the Online FTZ Information System section of the official trade website.

Outlook and Procedural Trajectory

Following the conclusion of the public comment and rebuttal periods, the designated examiner will complete the evaluation of the subzone request. The Foreign-Trade Zones Board will then review the findings and issue a final determination. While the current filing does not propose active manufacturing operations, approval would grant the facility designated subzone status, integrating it into the broader regional trade network managed by the Metroplex International Trade Development Corporation.