In what would give a fillip to flexible options for business units in special economic zones (SEZ), the government has amended the Special Economic Zones Rules, 2006 taking into consideration the work-from-home model of employment.
The move will change the demand for leasing space at information technology parks.
As per news reports, the notification issued by the commerce and industry ministry, a work unit operating in the SEZ can allow its employees, including contractual staff, to work from home or any place outside the SEZ.
While SEZs receive incentives like tax benefits for goods and services exported by them, there are some restrictions. Companies have to seek specific permission to move assets outside the SEZ premises and allow employees to work from home.
“The insertion of Rule 43A in the SEZ Rules enables the units in the SEZs to allow a maximum of 50% of their employees to work from home. It also grants them prior permission to temporarily remove goods such as laptops, computers, electronic equipment, etc., from the SEZ unit to a domestic tariff area without payment of duty or integrated goods and services tax (IGST),” said news reports.
