Translation guide
A designated area with special economic regulations that differ from the rest of the country, often to attract foreign investment and boost trade.
The broad concept of a geographically delimited area with special economic laws and incentives.
The standard, most common translation for 'special economic zone'. Used in official and media contexts.
China established special economic zones to attract foreign investment.
A less common but still valid translation. Sometimes used in specific legal or international contexts.
The country set up a special economic zone along the coast.
Referring to particular kinds of zones with distinct names, such as free trade zones or export processing zones.
Free trade zone (FTZ), a type of special economic zone where goods may be landed, handled, manufactured, and re-exported without customs intervention.
This port has been designated as a free trade zone.
Export processing zone (EPZ), focused on manufacturing goods for export with tax and regulatory incentives.
Bonded zone or bonded area, where goods can be stored, manipulated, or undergo manufacturing operations without payment of duties.
Comprehensive bonded zone, a Chinese concept integrating bonded logistics, processing, and trade functions. Mainly used in China-related contexts.
If you are referring to a specific country's zone, it's often best to use the term that country uses in English or its direct Japanese equivalent. For example, China's SEZs are usually 経済特区, while bonded zones in Japan are often 保税地域 (ほぜいちいき) or 保税区.
Many factories are operating in the export processing zone.
Goods stored in the bonded zone are not subject to customs duties.
Shanghai Waigaoqiao Comprehensive Bonded Zone is China's first comprehensive bonded zone.