Abstract:Special Economic Zones as the spearheads of China's economic and social development has become clear manifestations of a viable SEZ growth model, a powerful testament to development with Chinese characteristics. Compared to other regional models for development, the SEZ model has much wider applicability and can more quickly develop into a Growth Pole and better achieve the gradient transfer effect. It can also more quickly effectuate concentration of companies of the same industry. Growth Pole, Center-Periphery, and the " gradient transfer" theories constitute the theoretical basis for the SEZ modal. The SEZs are still facing various challenges and the SEZ model requires continuous improvement and development.