Different Types of Special Economic Zones

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Special Economic Zones: A Historical Perspective
The concept of special economic zones originated in the mid-20th century. Around that time, many countries began looking for ways to attract foreign investment, increase export activities and promote economic growth. One of the earliest examples of SEZ is Shannon Free Zone. It was established in Ireland in 1959 to develop the region through duty-free trade and industrial incentives. As it witnessed the desired results, it led to a rapid expansion of SEZs globally, particularly in China. By developing special economic zones such as Shenzhen, the country attracted substantial foreign investment. In India, the concept was introduced in the early 2000s with the Special Economic Zones Policy announced in April 2000.


Several kinds of SEZs have been developed to benefit businesses and boost countries’ overall economic growth. Here is a look at some of the main types:

Free Trade Zones (FTZs) – They are mostly located near ports to facilitate venezuela phone number list duty-free import and export of goods. They are designed to encourage international trade by streamlining customs procedures and reducing logistical costs.
Export Processing Zones (EPZs) – They encourage exports by offering tax incentives to attract manufacturers. Companies operating in these zones mostly benefit from reduced tariffs, quick customs clearance and tax concessions.
Industrial Parks – Industrial Parks are clusters of industries that benefit from shared infrastructure and utilities. They attract various sectors including manufacturing, logistics and IT.
Economic and Technological Development Zones (ETDZs) – Their aim is to enable technological advancement. They are home to high-tech industries and research and development centers. ETDZs often collaborate with academic and research institutions to drive innovation in the field.
Free Ports – Free Ports are designated areas where goods can be imported, handled, and re-exported without undergoing stringent customs procedures. They often cover larger areas and permit a wider range of activities, including manufacturing and value-added services.
Key Features of Special Economic Zones
The key features of SEZs are as follows:

Tax Incentives: SEZs offer substantial tax benefits to attract investors. These include exemptions on corporate income tax, import duties, and sales tax. These incentives reduce businesses’ operational costs and encourage both local and foreign companies to establish businesses in these zones.