DILEMMAS AND CHALLENGES IN THE TRANSFORMATION OF FREE ZONES: GLOBAL TRADE PROSPECTS

Purpose- Multiple transformations have begun with the shift from industry-oriented to information-oriented structures in the free zones. The study aims to examine the dilemmas and difficulties observed in the transformation of free zones operating in Turkey. Methodology- The study is in quantitative design. The study used the trade volume data according to the countries realized by the free zones in Turkey in 2020. Findings- While the analysis reveals the global trade of free zones, it also reveals results of the ratio of exports to imports of 17 free zones. Conclusion- The results highlight the need for these regions to be integrated into high-tech industrial transformation policies.

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