This article examines the theoretical and methodological foundations of special economic zones, and presents the different aspects of free economic and special economic zones. The purpose of the article is to research the foreign trade policy from a scientific point of view, which has achieved an "economic miracle" through the formation of special economic zones in the world economy, that is, the organization and development of the activities of special economic zones in the world economy, and the development of the national economy. on the basis of summarizing its positive aspects, it is to develop proposals for the establishment of special economic zones in Uzbekistan and its development prospects, as well as the possibilities of using the world experience in the establishment of special economic zones in Uzbekistan. As a result of the research, the following conclusions and proposals were formed: free economic zones are also a type of special economic zones, and free zones describe the activity of free ports; in the practice of foreign countries, free trade zones, free production zones, free economic zones, technological-innovation parks and other types of special economic zones are widely used.

This article provides a scientific and theoretical analysis of the concept, classification, and stages of historical formation of special economic zones (SEZs). The definitions proposed by international organizations (UNCTAD, World Bank) and leading researchers have been studied in comparison. The experience of SEZs in countries such as China, India, the Philippines, Ireland, and Bangladesh was reviewed. The legislative framework, institutional development, and current state of SEZs in Uzbekistan are analyzed. Based on the research results, recommendations have been developed to improve SEZ policy.