Abstract
The article aims to study the theoretical and empirical foundations of combining free economic zones with industrial clusters. The theoretical foundation is provided by the concept of a cumulative and circular process and the theory of ‘new economic geography’. The empirical part deals with the creation of cluster-type economic zones in Russia and Kazakhstan. The symbiosis of special economic zones (SEZs) and clusters is expected to enhance export potential and act as a powerful catalyst for national innovative development. Establishment of clusters within the framework of the existing SEZs can bring to these zones highly efficient projects for manufacturing export-oriented products. Methodologically, the research relies on systemic and structural-functional approaches, the logical method and the method of formalization as well as on the comparative and grouping methods applied to analyze SEZs. The study also provides a general overview of the SEZs and clusters operating in Russia and Kazakhstan and indicates their main types and characteristics. The practical significance of this research is that its findings can be used to devise recommendations for improving economic performance of both countries, attracting new technologies and investments and addressing social and economic problems of the regions.
Highlights
The Russian Federation and the Republic of Kazakhstan are united by a common history, conditions of economic development, cultural traditions and geographical boundaries
A special economic zone with a cluster form of organization is a group of economic entities united by priority logistical links
Application of the cluster approach allows the government to stimulate the activity of business entities, improve the investment climate and business environment in the region, develop economic, social, information and integration systems and intensify the development of entrepreneurship, attract investment and enhance economic growth
Summary
The Russian Federation and the Republic of Kazakhstan are united by a common history, conditions of economic development, cultural traditions and geographical boundaries. One of the main priorities for both countries is diversification of economy, stimulation of innovations and attraction of investments In his message to the Federal Assembly in 2018, Russian President Vladimir Putin pointed out that to ensure a further structural change of national economy and to enhance its competitiveness it is necessary to use the available “sources of growth” at a fundamentally different level. The message of President Nursultan Nazarbayev to the people of Kazakhstan emphasizes that the fourth industrial revolution requires profound technological, economic and social changes as well as new management tools2 In both countries, there is a need for full support of regional development and cluster initiatives in the form of various legislative, administrative, managerial and financial-economic measures. We compared zones with special conditions of economic activity by applying the cluster approach and providing recommendations as to how adjust the priorities for SEZs in order to foster knowledge-intensive economy and to stimulate the development of high-tech industries and services
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
