Italy's Special Economic Zones: From Cuba to Naples
The article examines Italy's Special Economic Zones (ZES), likening them to temporary free zones within the art sector. Legislative modifications to the ZES framework, stemming from Article 3-ter of Legislative Decree No. 135/2018, took effect on February 13, 2019, and revise Article 5 of Decree No. 91/2017. The OECD recognizes four distinct types of SEZs. In 2018, Marco D'Isanto suggested establishing a ZES in Naples. Regions eligible for ZES include 'less developed' areas like Campania, Puglia, Basilicata, Calabria, and Sicily, as well as 'in transition' regions such as Sardinia, Abruzzo, and Molise. Proposals must be submitted by March 15, 2019. Companies operating in ZES will enjoy streamlined procedures and customs benefits. The article raises concerns about the impact of ZES on cultural identity.
Key facts
- Article 3-ter of DL 135/2018, converted into Law 12/2019, effective February 13, 2019, amends ZES discipline.
- OECD identifies four SEZ types: free trade zones, export processing zones, special economic zones, special industrial zones.
- A ZES proposal for Naples was made by Marco D'Isanto in Il Corriere del Mezzogiorno in 2018.
- Cuba's Mariel port is an example of an industrial and technological development area.
- Italian ZES will be established by Prime Ministerial decree upon regional proposal, with areas not necessarily contiguous.
- Eligible regions: Campania, Puglia, Basilicata, Calabria, Sicily (less developed); Sardinia, Abruzzo, Molise (in transition).
- Proposals must be submitted by March 15, 2019.
- ZES offer simplified procedures and customs facilitations, including enclosed free zones with customs surveillance.
Entities
Institutions
- OECD
- Il Corriere del Mezzogiorno
- Il Sole 24 Ore
- Artribune
Locations
- Cuba
- Mariel
- Naples
- Italy
- Campania
- Puglia
- Basilicata
- Calabria
- Sicily
- Sardinia
- Abruzzo
- Molise
- Northern Italy