On October 22, 2026, representatives of the Free Economic Zone Minsk administration took part in the 4th International Forum of Special Economic Zones, held in Moscow, Russian Federation, at the Special Economic Zone "Technopolis Moscow" location.
This year, the forum’s central theme was "Technological Leadership and Global Cooperation: The Role of SEZs in Economic Development." Discussions focused on the readiness of SEZ sites to host new manufacturing facilities, strategies for attracting investors, workforce development, and aligning the growth of SEZs with national technological leadership initiatives.
Alexander Novak, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, sent a welcoming address to the participants. Maxim Reshetnikov, Russia’s Minister of Economic Development, also delivered a presentation during the plenary session.
A notable feature of this year’s forum was its significant international component, which brought together government officials, industry associations, and management companies. For the first time, the International Congress of Special Economic Zones featured speakers from Africa and Southeast Asia—specifically Cambodia, China, Madagascar, and Myanmar. Participants discussed industrial cooperation among residents, technology transfer, and collaboration between sites within the framework of the BRICS International Association of Special Economic Zones.
Practical business experience took center stage during the session "Components of SEZ Investment Attractiveness: From Incentives to Ecosystems." This session examined the methodologies and structural elements used to evaluate operating conditions at SEZ sites, including the costs and timelines for utility connections, access to financing and human resources, tariff predictability, and the quality of project support services.
A separate discussion was dedicated to the long-term business models of SEZ management companies. Participants explored ways to increase their own revenue through real estate, the operation of utility networks, and the provision of additional services.
During the forum, representatives of the FEZ Minsk administration engaged with other attendees and shared information about the Free Economic Zone, highlighting its investment and industrial potential. Potential partners were invited to visit FEZ Minsk to discuss future prospects and projects aimed at developing trade and economic relations, as well as industrial cooperation.
