FREE ECONOMIC ZONE AS A DRIVER OF DEVELOPMENT IN REUNIFIED REGIONS (DPR, LPR, KHERSON AND ZAPOROZHYE REGIONS)

The article is dedicated to analyzing the role of free economic zones (FEZs) in the socio-economic recovery of the territories of the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics, Kherson and Zaporozhye regions, integrated into the Russian Federation. The relevance of the research is due to the need to find effective mechanisms for the restoration and integration of these territories into the all-Russian economic space, stimulating investment inflows, creating new jobs, and improving the living standards of the population. The aim of the study is to analyze the global and Russian experience in the functioning of FEZs, identify the most successful practices, and develop recommendations for adapting these practices to the specific conditions of the re-integrated regions. The paper analyzes the advantages and risks of creating FEZs, examines various FEZ models and their applicability to specific sectors of the economy in the regions under consideration. Particular attention is paid to issues of legal regulation, tax incentives, customs administration, and infrastructure support for FEZ activities. Based on the analysis, it is concluded that the creation of FEZs in the re-integrated regions can become a powerful driver of economic growth, attracting both domestic and foreign investments, stimulating the development of priority sectors of the economy; however, to achieve maximum efficiency, it is necessary to consider the specific socio-economic, political, and infrastructure conditions of the regions, as well as to ensure transparency and predictability of the legal framework, create a favorable investment climate, and minimize corruption risks. The conclusion reflects the importance of a comprehensive approach to the creation and management of FEZs. The prospects of FEZs for the integration and restoration of the economic potential of the re-integrated regions are emphasized. It is pointed out the need for competent management, adaptation of benefits, control, infrastructure development, monitoring of efficiency, and stimulation of innovation to maximize the positive effect of FEZs and ensure sustainable development.

free economic zone, reunified regions, potential, economic development, sustainable growth, investment attrac- tion, effective tool, tax benefits, investment climate, infrastruc- ture, legislative framework, competitiveness

Ibragimkhalilova T. V., Gladkova L. A. Free economic zone as a driver of development in reunified regions (DPR, LPR, Kherson and Zaporozhye regions). Biznes. Obrazovanie. Pravo = Business. Education. Law. 2025;3(72):46—53. DOI: 10.25683/VOLBI.2025.72.1401.