This study looks into the role of special economic zones in strengthening competitiveness of economic corridors in the Greater Mekong Subregion. It examines factors behind the success of special economic zones and the role they can play in Greater Mekong Subregion’s economic corridor development. The analysis is based on a company-level survey in the Mae Sot special economic zone and interviews with clients operating in other zones throughout the subregion.

The report offers policy recommendations for ministers in the Greater Mekong Subregion on how the zones can contribute toward improving competitiveness of economic corridors and thereby promote economic development.