INDUSTRIAL FREE ZONES IN THE DOMINICAN-REPUBLIC - NATIONAL VS LOCAL-IMPACT

In order to achieve development and growth in the manufacturing sector , the Dominican Republic and many other Third World countries pursue a strategy of export-based industrialization focused exclusively on int ernational markets. This article provides a concise overview on export -based or free zone development in the Dominican Republic by examining its influence on three spatial levels: the nation, the region, and th e town. Many elements must be considered when judging the success of f ree zone development. From the national perspective, job creation and foreign exchange earnings are positive. In addition, although certain regional impacts prove that cities with industrial free zones (IFZs) c an stimulate their surrounding areas rather than simply exploit them, the local repercussions are often undesirable, especially when local a uthorities are unable to control and plan urban development and servic e delivery. Thus, IFZs have a very different effect at the local scale than at the regional or national scale.