Assessing the Contribution of Export Processing Zones to Industrial Development in Cross River State

This study assesses the contribution of export processing zones (EPZs) to industrial development in Cross River State, Nigeria, with particular focus on the Calabar Free Trade Zone. Established to attract foreign investment, generate employment, and stimulate export-led growth, the Calabar Free Trade Zone has been operational for over two decades, yet its developmental impact on the broader state economy remains subject to critical scrutiny. The study adopts a descriptive research design with primary data collected through structured questionnaires administered to 100 zone enterprise managers, zone authority officials, and local business operators. Secondary data are drawn from the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority and the Cross River State Bureau of Statistics. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and content analysis are used in data analysis. The theoretical framework draws on enclave economy theory and the new economic geography perspective. The study examines spillover effects of EPZ operations on local supplier development, skills transfer, infrastructure upgrading, and technology adoption in the wider Calabar economy. Findings are expected to show that while the zone generates direct employment and foreign exchange earnings, backward linkages with the domestic economy remain weak, limiting broader industrial development benefits. The study recommends policies to strengthen local content requirements within the zone, encourage supplier development programmes, and improve integration between zone enterprises and the surrounding Calabar economic environment. These findings are expected to inform EPZ policy reform at the national level. Keywords: export processing zones, industrial development, Cross River State, Calabar, free trade zone