Major General Abul Kalam Mohammad Ziaur Rahman, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA) extended a warm invitation to Chinese investors to explore the "golden opportunity" of investing in Bangladesh. "Come and explore a golden opportunity of investing in Bangladesh, a nation where potential meets performance, and partnerships lead to prosperity," said Major General Rahman at the seminar titled "Investment Opportunities in the EPZs and EZ of BEPZA," jointly organized by BEPZA and Ningbo Daxie Chamber of Commerce on at Ningbo in China on Monday (Dec 16), according to a BEPZA press release.
Highlighting the country's strategic location and dynamic economy, the BEPZA Executive Chairman said, "Bangladesh is strategically located at the crossroads of South Asia and Southeast Asia, offering seamless access to regional and international markets. Our vibrant population of over 180 million, predominantly young, educated, and highly skilled, ensures a robust workforce that can drive businesses to new heights."
He emphasized that the main attraction of investment in Bangladesh is its inexpensive and easily trainable workforce, with the minimum wage being the lowest in Asia. The country's investment policies have been consistently liberalized to ensure a favorable environment for foreign investors. Moreover, BEPZA has been providing a "One Stop Service" to its investors, making it easier for them to set up and operate industries in the EPZs of the country.
Major General Rahman also outlined BEPZA's future plans, including the development of the BEPZA Economic Zone at Mirsharai, Chattogram, which has already attracted 41 enterprises.
The establishment of three new EPZs in Jashore, Patuakhali, and Gaibandha districts is also underway, expected to be ready for investors by the end of 2025.
Cao Jun, Executive Director of the Ningbo Daxie Chamber of Commerce, spoke about the growing economic and trade cooperation between China and Bangladesh. He highlighted that China has been a vital partner in Bangladesh's development, with cooperation spanning from traditional industries such as jute and leather to emerging sectors like the digital economy and environmental protection. "We believe that the cooperation between China and Bangladesh will continue to flourish, bringing fruitful results for both nations," said Jun.
Cao Mu Zi, Secretary General of the Ningbo Daxie Chamber of Commerce, reiterated the importance of this seminar in facilitating greater understanding and cooperation between Chinese enterprises and Bangladesh. She emphasized the opportunity for Chinese investors to explore the benefits of the EPZs and Economic Zones in Bangladesh.
To date, investors from 38 countries have invested in the EPZs and BEPZA Economic Zone, with 449 enterprises in operation, cumulative investment of US$ 6.8 billion, and over half a million Bangladeshi nationals working directly in these enterprises. Among them, 107 industrial units have been established by the Chinese, investing US$ 1.6 billion and creating job opportunities for 133,000 Bangladeshi nationals.
The seminar was attended by around 120 participants, including prospective investors, local media, investment analysts, and business lawyers. Apart from the Executive Chairman, Md. Tanvir Hossain, Executive Director (Investment Promotion), Tarek Hossain, Director (Investment Promotion) and Ali Istiak Chowdhury, Director of BEPZA were present in the seminar.
