Question : CONVERSION OF EPZ INTO SEZ

(a) whether the Government has taken note that several Export Processing Zones (EPZs) have been converted into Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to avail the benefits of tax relaxation;

(b) if so, the details of such conversions during the last three years along with the laid down provision in this regard;

(c) whether the Government justifies it/corroborates the same on account of increase in export, production and employment opportunities in these zones and if so, the details thereof; and

(d) the steps being taken by the Government to ensure that the exports to be made are as per the terms and conditions regarding SEZs ?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (INDEPEN- DENT CHARGE) (SMT. NIRMALA SITHARAMAN)

(a) & (b): Eight Export Processing Zones (EPZs) were converted into Special Economic Zones

(SEZs) with the enactment of SEZ Act 2005 and Rules framed thereunder. However, no EPZ has since been converted into SEZ.

(c): The contribution of SEZ exports, employment generated and investment made in respect of these 8 SEZs during the last three years is as under:

 
 Financial Year	Exports	Employment	Investment	(Rs. Crore)	(Persons)	(Rs. Crore) 
 2011-2012	98381.57	221246	11824.87 2012-2013	119322.87	230737	12266.88 2013-2014	72628	241355	13345.27