Export Processing Zones

This paper studies export processing zones (EPZs) which have become increasingly popular as apolicy tool for development and export-oriented growth, and can be found in 130 countries around theworld.The report consists of four parts. Part I provides a broad overview on the current use of EPZs,including the evolution of EPZ policy, their objectives and how these are achieved, and the incentivescommonly offered. It presents case studies from China, India and Russia illustrating new trends andpolicies. Part II then provides a review of the economic costs and benefits of EPZs with particular focus ontheir trade and employment implications. Part III presents an analysis of how common EPZ policies relateto trade rules. It reviews the relationship between EPZs and the WTO Agreements such as the WTOAgreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (ASCM), followed by a discussion of how EPZs arecommonly treated in RTAs. Part IV concludes.EPZs are a sub-optimal policy from an economic point of view since it benefits the few anddistorts resource allocation, but may be useful as a stepping stone to trade liberalisation on a national basis.Governments should consider all available policy options, and conduct a thorough cost/benefit analysisbefore implementation.

OECD Trade Policy Papers

Export Processing Zones

Past and Future Role in Trade and Development