Govt considers amendments to boost SEZs

The government is considering steps to ensure that special economic zones (SEZs) remain attractive destinations for investment, commerce and industry minister Anand Sharma said today.

The government is considering steps to ensure that special economic zones (SEZs) remain attractive destinations for investment, commerce and industry minister Anand Sharma said on Thursday.

HT Image

He admitted that the SEZs had seen a gradual slowdown though they account for more than a quarter of India’s exports.

Sharma said he had written to the finance minister to reconsider withdrawing the minimum alternate tax and the dividend distribution tax.

“Access to cheap credit at interest rates comparable to those in competitive international markets has also engaged my attention especially in the wake of a slowdown in the economy,” he said during the inauguration of the India International Jewellery show here.

He said the government was working closely with the industry leaders to formulate slew of measures to offer a fillip to the special economic zone exports.