Business Desk :
The Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) expected that five economic zones would draw US$5.5 billion worth investment by 2026.
The economic zones are National Special Economic Zone (NSEZ), Srihatta Economic Zone (SEZ), Jamalpur Economic Zone, Moheshkhali Economic Zone and Bangladesh Special Economic Zone, says a press release yesterday.
Beza also hopes that the economic zones will create at least 2.38 lakh employment opportunities.
“In the first phase, five zones will be completed with adequate utility connections (gas, electricity and water) and road infrastructure,” said Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, executive chairman of Beza, at a press conference at Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) headquarters in the city.
He said Beza is making a realistic commitment to earn the confidence of investors to transform Beza into a true investment friendly authority so that investors can implement its investment plan in time.
“I think, if Beza can implement the plan of five economic zones properly in the next two years, then it will be able to use this experience to take better initiatives in the future. However, this will require a concerted effort from all departments of the government,” he added.
After taking charge as the Executive Chairman of Beza, Chowdhury Ashik said, “I have discussed with all categories of stakeholders to identify the main issues in the establishment of economic zones, including business officials, domestic and foreign investors, developers, business organizations, development aid organisations and journalists.
