Question : AGRI EXPORT ZONES H .

(a) the details of the Agri Export Zones (AEZs) set up in different parts of the country, State-wise and location-wise particularly in Andhra Pradesh;

(b) whether there have been instances wherein AEZs have been sanctioned but have not become operational till date;

(c) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor along with the steps taken by the Government to address their problems; and

(d) whether the Government proposes to set up new AEZs across the country and if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (DR. E.M. SUDARSANA NATCHIAPPAN)

(a) The details of 60 Agri Export Zones (AEZs) set up in different part of the country, state -wise and location-wise particularly in Andhra Pradesh is given as at Annexure – I.

(b & c) No, Madam. All the 60 AEZs notified by DGFT have completed their span of five years.

(d) Under the AEZ arrangements, the project proposal for setting up of AEZ were received from State Governments and after evaluation, if the proposal was cleared by the Steering Committee chaired by the Commerce Secretary, the same was notified as AEZ by Directorate General of Foreign Trade, Department of Commerce.

A peer evaluation of the existing AEZs was carried out in 2005 to assess the performance of AEZs. On the basis of the recommendations of the Peer Group in 2005, it was decided not to consider notification of new AEZs unless there were strong compelling reasons.

Accordingly, no proposal for setting up of new AEZ is under consideration.