‘Mega SEZs to spur electronics exports’

‘Mega SEZs to spur electronics exports’

Context

Draft of new policy to be out soon; Centre eyeing free trade pacts to drive exports of small electronics

What has happened?

In a bid to make India an export hub for electronics, the government plans to set up at least one SEZ or special economic zone in every State under the proposed electronic policy

Africa, Europe focus

Under the new policy, which was earlier expected to be out by March 2018, the government also plans to sign free trade agreements (FTAs) with countries, including those in Africa and Europe, to which India can export smaller electronic products.

Push for CEZs

• It had also recommended that Costal Economic Zones (CEZs) be set up, similar to what China has done.
• Pointing out that India’s numerous SEZs have not taken off in the way they did in China due to issues such as size and location, the Aayog had said large areas near the coast can be set aside for CEZs “in which a sound ecosystem for healthy growth of export-oriented firms is fostered.