India’s SEZ Exports Surge 32% to ₹11.7 Lakh Crore in FY26, Boosting Investment and Jobs
SEZ Exports Record Strong Growth in 2025-26
New Delhi, March 28 – India’s exports from operational Special Economic Zones (SEZs) crossed ₹11.70 lakh crore in 2025-26 (up to December 2025), registering a robust 32.02% growth compared to the previous year, according to an official government statement.This surge highlights the growing importance of SEZs in driving India’s export performance and strengthening its global trade position.
India Has 368 Notified SEZs with ₹7.86 Lakh Crore Investment
As of February 2026, India has 368 notified SEZs, with total investments reaching ₹7.86 lakh crore. These zones continue to attract significant domestic and global investments, contributing to industrial growth and infrastructure development.SEZs Generate Over 31 Lakh Jobs
SEZs have emerged as major employment generators, providing jobs to over 31.73 lakh people as of December 2025. The growth of these zones has supported both direct and indirect employment, boosting local economies across the country.Budget 2026-27 Proposes Key Reforms for SEZ Units
The Union Budget 2026-27 introduced a one-time measure allowing eligible SEZ manufacturing units to sell a specified portion of their output in the Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) at concessional duty rates.The government clarified that such sales will be limited to a defined proportion of exports, and necessary regulatory amendments will be implemented to ensure a level playing field for domestic manufacturers.
Policy Aims to Improve Efficiency and Competitiveness
The new policy initiative is designed to enhance capacity utilization, achieve economies of scale, and reduce export costs. It is also expected to strengthen the resilience of the SEZ ecosystem while boosting global investor confidence.Tax Incentives to Attract Tech and Data Center Investments
The extension of tax incentives for cloud computing and data center operations within SEZs is likely to attract global technology firms and manufacturers. This move is expected to further strengthen India’s position as a preferred investment destination.SEZs Enhance India’s Global Competitiveness
By offering fiscal incentives, simplified regulations, and modern infrastructure, SEZs have significantly improved India’s competitiveness in global markets. These zones have fostered the growth of specialized industrial clusters and encouraged innovation and technological advancement.SEZ Act 2005 Drives Export-Led Industrial Growth
Since the implementation of the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Act in May 2005, SEZs have played a critical role in accelerating export growth and industrial expansion across multiple sectors.Beyond foreign exchange earnings, SEZs have contributed to broader socio-economic development through infrastructure creation, new business ecosystems, and improved livelihoods.
New SEZs in Gujarat and Karnataka Focus on Electronics and Semiconductors
In June 2025, the government approved two new SEZs—one in Sanand, Gujarat, for semiconductor manufacturing, and another in Dharwad, Karnataka, for electronic components production.These new zones are expected to support India’s ambitions in high-tech manufacturing and strengthen its position in global supply chains.
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