Martín Gustavo Ibarra Pardo

Martín Gustavo Ibarra is the firm’s president and was part of the World Bank’s Mission to China in 1983 that created the world’s first special economic zone in China. He has collaborated in the restructuration of free zones and international trade mechanisms for the majority of Latin American countries. An adviser for different ports in their concession and port services promotion contracts.

In 2004, he received the “Lifetime Achievement Award” from India’s Ministry of Foreign Trade in recognition of his leadership in the firm’s advancement efforts in favor of free zones for goods and services. He is currently the President of Araújo Ibarra & Asociados S.A.

In 2006, he received from the Colombian Logistics Association (ACOLOG) the VOS Distinguished Service Award in recognition of his life, work, and provided services.

In 2010, the Colombian International Trade Association (ADICOMEX) recognized him with the “International Trade Executive of the Year” award.

He managed and coordinated the establishment of Colombia’s Ministry of Foreign Trade (today’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism) as the country moved towards a globalized world participating in the drafting of crucial legislation like the Customs Statute of 1984, the Foreign Trade Act of 1984, and the Free Zones Act of 1983.He’s been named by various legal guides like Chambers & Partners, Legal 500, and Best Lawyers International, as one of the best International Trade attorneys in Colombia and Latin America.

He is also an acclaimed international lecturer on the topics of Free Zones and International Trade.