Airport officials trying to make area a free trade zone.(Business)

Byline: The Associated Press

Albuquerque International Sunport officials want the airport's newly acquired 65 acres designated a foreign trade zone.

The zone would help increase international trade by enabling importers to bring materials here duty-free. Officials say the zone would benefit New Mexico importers and make the city more attractive to international companies.

"We feel there's potential for it to work," city aviation director Jay Czar said. "It's something we have an obligation to at least try."

The city is planning to apply for foreign zone designation with the U.S. Commerce Department. Approval could come within a year. …