Working Paper: 251

Performance of Indian SEZs: A Disaggregated
Level Analysis

Malini L Tantri

 

Abstract

The performance of Indian SEZs at the disaggregate level is analyzed within the framework of the Zone-Trade Performance Index, taking seven conventional SEZs as reference for the period between 1986-87 and 2007-08. The analysis reveals variations in performance across zones as well as within the zones over the reference period. The variations in performance are found statistically significant as well. The zones specifically located in economically developed states performed better than the zones in other states. This reveals the pressing problem of regional disparities finding reflection in the SEZs and thereby demands policy attention on the same. Further zones are found equally sensitive to external economic fluctuations. On the positive side, the introduction of the SEZs policy in 2000-01 has had a favourable impact on the performance of these enclaves.

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