The report examines the standards, norms and operational characteristics associated with successful special economic zones in Africa and comparable regions. Drawing on surveys, study tours, stakeholder consultations, secondary data and case studies, it assesses zone performance in attracting investment, promoting exports, generating employment and strengthening domestic and regional value chains. It analyses governance, regulation, infrastructure, financing, ownership, incentives, sustainability and links with local economies. The report identifies persistent constraints, including low occupancy, weak infrastructure, regulatory uncertainty, financing gaps, import dependence and limited domestic sourcing. It proposes a risk-informed policy pathway that diagnoses investment risks, deploys targeted de-risking measures, strengthens zone performance and positions African zones for future growth. Recommendations emphasize public-private partnerships, reliable infrastructure, regulatory predictability, AfCFTA alignment, regional integration, skills development, digitalization, environmental standards and performance-based incentives for competitive, inclusive and sustainable industrial transformation.