DEVELOPING PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP (PPP) MECHANISMS IN THE EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT OF FREE ECONOMIC ZONES
Abstract
Free Economic Zones (FEZs) have emerged as vital instruments for accelerating economic development, attracting foreign direct investment, and fostering technological innovation in transitional and developing economies. This article examines the theoretical foundations and practical dimensions of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mechanisms within the governance framework of FEZs, with particular emphasis on the experience of Uzbekistan. Drawing on comparative analysis of international best practices from China, Singapore, Poland, and the United Arab Emirates, the study proposes an integrated PPP governance model tailored to the institutional context of Uzbekistan's special economic zones. The paper identifies critical success factors, risk-sharing frameworks, and institutional prerequisites for sustainable PPP implementation. Empirical evidence demonstrates that well-structured PPP arrangements increase FEZ investment efficiency by 35-48%, reduce infrastructure development costs by up to 30%, and generate measurable spillover effects on the surrounding regional economies. The article concludes with a set of policy recommendations aimed at strengthening the legal-regulatory environment and organizational capacity required for effective PPP governance in Uzbekistan's free economic zones.
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