Exports from SEZs up by 41.5% yoy

India’s exports from Special Economic Zones (SEZs) increased by 41.5% year over year (yoy) during April-June 2021, reaching Rs. 2.15 lakh crore. Sectors which have driven the export growth of SEZs are pharmaceuticals, engineering, and gems and jewellery. India’s SEZs contribute 25% share in total outbound shipments. Data from Ministry of Commerce and Industry shows that exports from SEZs fell to Rs. 7.56 lakh crore in 2020-21 from Rs 7.97 lakh crore in 2019-20.

In total, 427 zones are approved by Indian government, out of which 267 are operational. Till June 30 2021, around Rs 6.25 lakh crore have been invested in these zones, employing 24.47 lakh people. Ministry of Commerce and Industry set up the nodal body Export Promotion Council for EoUs and SEZs (EPCES) for these zones. The aim of this council to promote shipments from these zones. During the current fiscal, the council aims to increase exports to US$ 400 billion. Major export destinations for the zones are United Arab Emirates, US, UK, Australia and Singapore.