Features of functioning of special economic zones in Russia at the current stage of development: problems and prospects

The article presents an analysis of the features of the functioning of special economic zones in Russia at the present stage of development. Port special economic zones represented by Murmansk and Ulyanovsk regions, as well as the Khabarovsk Krai were selected as the object of research. The indicated special economic zones are analyzed from the perspective of their similarities and differences in terms of the initial conditions of development, target guidelines, as well as types of economic activities. As a result of the analysis of the indicated economic entities of the Russian Federation, the problems and development prospects of each of them were identified. The directions for improving the functioning of free economic zones (of institutional and economic nature) have been determined, which can be introduced into reality through the interaction of the business sector with public authorities, and, accordingly, resolving the contradictions between their heterogeneous interests within the framework of achieving a common goal - increasing the efficiency of some territories of the above- mentioned regions. This circumstance is considered from the point of their compliance with modern challenges and threats that are dictated by new economic realities, but at the same time, open up unique unprecedented opportunities for their exponential development in terms of competitiveness, stability and security.