The role of the divergence of the Bam Special Economic Zone in the development of East Kerman.

Special Economic Zones (SEZs) have gained prominence in recent years as key instruments for attracting investment and accelerating economic growth. This research investigates the effects of the development of the Argh-e Jadid Bam Special Economic Zone on the surrounding region. The study employs a quantitative research method based on statistical data. The research period spans from 2006 to 2024. Data were collected from various sources, including statistical organizations, geographical maps, and regional development reports. To analyze the data, various spatial and statistical indicators were used, such as population growth rate, land prices, industrial land, Landsat satellite imagery, and the Development Disparity Index (RDI). The results of the research indicate that the development of the Argh-e Jadid Bam Special Economic Zone has had a significant impact on the economic and physical development of the surrounding areas. These effects include population growth, infrastructure development, and increased investment in some cities and villages nearby. However, data analysis reveals that development has been unevenly distributed, leading to a concentration of growth in areas close to the special economic zone and exacerbating spatial inequalities in more distant areas. In particular, changes in land use towards an increase in built-up areas and a decrease in the area of agricultural and pasture lands indicate the negative impacts of industrial development on the environment and natural resources. RDI analysis indicates that the special zone’s divergence effect is most pronounced in the cities of Bam and Borat, followed by Narmashir County and surrounding villages. Therefore, the regional development divergence associated with the special economic zone is more pronounced in areas close to the special economic zone and gradually decreases with increasing distance from it. Extended Abstract
Introduction
Special Economic Zones (SEZs) have gained prominence in recent years as key instruments for attracting investment and accelerating economic growth. This research investigates the effects of the development of the Argh-e Jadid Bam Special Economic Zone on the surrounding region.
Methodology
The study employs a quantitative research method based on statistical data. The research period spans from 2006 to 2024. Data were collected from various sources, including statistical organizations, geographical maps, and regional development reports. To analyze the data, various spatial and statistical indicators were used, such as population growth rate, land prices, industrial land, Landsat satellite imagery, and the Development Disparity Index (RDI).
Results and discussion
he results of the research indicate that the development of the Argh-e Jadid Bam Special Economic Zone has had a significant impact on the economic and physical development of the surrounding areas. These effects include population growth, infrastructure development, and increased investment in some cities and villages nearby. However, data analysis reveals that development has been unevenly distributed, leading to a concentration of growth in areas close to the special economic zone and exacerbating spatial inequalities in more distant areas. In particular, changes in land use towards an increase in built-up areas and a decrease in the area of agricultural and pasture lands indicate the negative impacts of industrial development on the environment and natural resources. RDI analysis indicates that the special zone’s divergence effect is most pronounced in the cities of Bam and Borat, followed by Narmashir County and surrounding villages. Therefore, the regional development divergence associated with the special economic zone is more pronounced in areas close to the special economic zone and gradually decreases with increasing distance
Conclusion
The regional development divergence associated with the SEZ is strongly correlated with proximity, diminishing with distance. The study underscores the need for strategic planning to mitigate negative environmental impacts and promote more equitable development patterns around
close to the special economic zone and gradually decreases with increasing distance
Conclusion
The regional development divergence associated with the SEZ is strongly correlated with proximity, diminishing with distance. The study underscores the need for strategic planning to mitigate negative environmental impacts and promote more equitable development patterns around SEZs.