| Abstract: |
Export processing zones (EPZS) are economics enclaves withinwhich manufacturing for export occurs under virtual free tradeconditions. Many developing countries have established EPZSin hopes of reaping economic gains through employment, foreignexchange earnings, and technology transfer. This article studiesthe benefits and costs of EPZS in Indonesia, the Republic ofKorea, Malaysia, and the Philippines and reviews the relationshipbetween the welfare effects of EPZS and the host country's economicpolicies. When the domestic economy is distorted, the EPZ conferslimited welfare gains. Nevertheless, EPZS are far from the "enginesof development" that some countries had initially hoped theywould become. |
