"What is the disadvantage to a freeport?" Summarised in numerous reports such as the findings of the Goverments Office of Budget Responsibility which concluded that they offered no benefit. It is a matter of fact that PD Ports Teesport are not in the freeport zone despite being surrounded by it. Why do you think they didnt want to be included? The last time we tried freeports we had the benefit of EU membership but they didnt work so were ended in 2012.