Comparative analysis of mechanisms of special economic zones: the experience of Africa and China and the prospects for adaptation in the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation

This article conducts a comparative analysis of global practices in implementing Special Economic Zones (SEZs), focusing on the preferential regimes of Africa and China. It explores aspects of their adaptation for regulating the development of the Arctic Zone of the Russian Federation (AZRF). The author substantiates the relevance of the topic amid international sanctions and the need for diversification in Russia's northern regions. The aim is to identify key factors of effectiveness and propose recommendations for domestic practice. The methods employed include literature review and comparative analysis of institutions and incentive tools in the regions under consideration. It is established that SEZ success is determined not only by preferential regimes but also by the quality of infrastructure, institutional support, strategic planning, and the involvement of the local economy. Based on the research findings, the author puts forward proposals for optimizing preferential measures for the Arctic Zone of the Russian Federation.