Havana, November 9 (RHC)—Cuba’s Official Gazette published a new decree-law on Friday to regulate the creation and operation of science and technology parks, and science and technology companies that function as an interface between universities and productive and service entities.

According to Prensa Latina news agency, Decree-Law 363 and three resolutions make up the first package of regulations for policies aimed at the improvement of the island’s  Science, Technology and Innovation System.

The reulations also include tax incentives and exemptions to encourage the creations of the parks and the companies that will be incorporated into them

At least four science and technology parks, linked to centers of higher education in Havana, Villa Clara, and Mayabeque, will be developed in the first stage.

The first projects are related to the use of information technology, particularly Cuban software, which would allow independence from communications platforms like Whatsapp, according to the news agency.

The measures respond to policies outlined during the 7th Congress of the Communist Party and included in Article 21 of the newly approved Constitution.