Following the enactment of Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Act by Parliament in 2012, several economic zones have been established in Pakistan. These zones are designated areas that provide specialised amenities for a range of businesses. Companies which set up offices, factories or production units in these zones are offered incentives, which include a 10-years income tax exemption as well as a one-time exemption from customs duties and taxes when importing merchandise.
Here are four economic zones in Sindh that are attracting the most investment across Pakistan:
1. Bin Qasim Special Economic Zone (Karachi). Businesses: Chemicals, consumer goods, furniture, logistics, pharmaceuticals and processed foods. Total area: Approximately 930 acres. Facilities: Fire station, high pressure gas and water lines, security and underground sewerage and electricity distribution systems. Plot sizes include: 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1,2 and 4 acres. Purchase price range: Rs 3-4.5 million per acres.
2. Khairpur Special Economic Zone (Khairpur). Businesses: Agro-processing, baked goods, dairy products, farm equipment and packaging. Total area: Approximately 140 acres. Facilities: Cold storage, a 20 MW power plant, reinforced water, gas and electricity connections, warehouses and water treatment plants. Plot sizes include: 0.25, 0.5,1,2 and 4 acres. Purchase price range: Rs 2.5-3.5 million per acres.
3. Korangi Creek Special Economic Zone (Karachi). Businesses: IT, Jewellery, pharmaceuticals, processed food items and textiles. Total area: Approximately 240 acres. Facilities: Concrete reinforced roads, high-pressure fast and water lines, uninterrupted power supply, ware houses and waterwaste treatment. Plot sizes include: 0.5, 1,2 and 4 acres. Purchase price range: Rs 3-4 million per acres.
4. Livestock Special Economic Zone (Bhambore). Businesses: Framing and livestock. Total area: Approximately 2,500 acres. Facilities: Boundary wall, electricity, established farms, management and operation support, storage and potable water. Plot sizes include: 5 acres. Purchase price range: Rs 2-3 million per acre.
By Syed Wajeeh-ul-hassan Naqvi. Information provided by Board Of investment, Pakistan.