CFTA is a core component of Liangjiang New Area (CLNA hereinafter), which is the third national level development new zone in China.

 On November 12, 2008, CFTA was established by approval of the State Council, and its Administrative Committee and Company started operation on December 18 the same year.

 The Special Customs Supervision Zone of CFTA has a planned area of 8.37 km2, and is divided into water port and airport function areas. The water port area covers 2.43 km2, and airport area 5.94 km2, the two linked by a 17km-long dedicated expressway.