Business Report :
In a move to accelerate infrastructure development and bolster foreign investment, the Bangladesh government is prioritizing the establishment of the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone (CEIZ) in Anwara, Chattogram.
This strategic initiative is aimed at drawing in significant investment from China, the world’s second-largest economy, by offering a dedicated industrial hub backed by modern infrastructure and favorable policies.
To advance this goal, the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (Beza) has recently submitted a revised project proposal worth Tk4,065 crore to the Planning Commission for approval.
The project, titled Supporting Infrastructure Project for Chinese Economic Zone, is structured under a government-to-government (G2G) collaboration model. Of the total cost, Tk2,436.84 crore will be funded by the Bangladesh government, while Tk2,148.86 crore is expected to come from Chinese loans.
Beza and Planning Commission officials have indicated that, subject to approval by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC), implementation of the project could begin as early as June 2025, with a targeted completion year of 2029.
The proposed CEIZ will cover approximately 800 acres of land, which was acquired in 2016, and is strategically located near key logistics infrastructure, including the Karnaphuli River Tunnel, Chattogram seaport, and airport-making it an ideal site for export-oriented manufacturing.
The concept of the CEIZ was first initiated in 2014, following a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between China’s Ministry of Commerce and Beza. However, the project saw little progress over the years due to administrative and technical delays.
The initiative regained traction after a high-level visit by Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus to China in late March 2025. Soon after, on 25 March, a directive was issued to submit the modernized CEIZ project to the Planning Commission through the Chief Adviser’s Office.
A second MoU in August 2022 further reinforced the G2G collaboration, laying the groundwork for joint development efforts. Under the revised plan, Chinese enterprises will lead in industrial development and direct investment, while Beza will focus on building essential municipal and utility infrastructure. This includes the development of drainage systems, water supply, electricity, natural gas lines, roads, and a jetty.
