Implementation of the territories with special economic regimes in the Far East of Russia

Abstract

In the Far East of Russia, economic development has dramatically slowed down for the past 30 years. The federal government seeks new methods to attract investments into the regions, stimulate entrepreneurial activity, and boost economic growth. This paper critically evaluates state policies that involve the active implementation of Special Economic Zones, Territorial Development Zones, Vladivostok Free Port, and the Territories of Advanced Social and Economic Development. Research is based on the interviews with the state authorities from the regions of Russia and thorough investigation of the state policies, legislation, and government reports. This study suggests three conclusions. First, there is an excessive amount of state development policies, which is the result of competition among different federal ministries. Second, there is no evidence of innovative activity or productivity growth within those economic zones. Finally, methods to assess the effectiveness of the regional policies are undeveloped and lack clarity. Recommendations for further research are given at the end of the paper.