The Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (Beza) is formulating a three-phase implementation plan to establish economic zones nationwide, aiming to drive industrialisation, job creation, and sustainable infrastructure development.

Under the draft National Master Plan of Economic Zones, Beza has prioritized the establishment of 20 economic zones by 2046. The phased approach is designed to optimize resources, streamline land acquisition, and enhance investor confidence. The World Bank is financing the plan’s formulation.

Beza disclosed the initiative during a workshop on economic zone prioritization and infrastructure planning held at its headquarters in Agargaon, Dhaka, yesterday.

Only 10 economic zones have become operational since 2015, including two government-run zones—the National Economic Zone in Chattogram and the Sreehatta Economic Zone in Sylhet—and eight private zones. These zones employ approximately 60,000 people, with private zones accounting for 53,000 jobs.

Beza reported that in fiscal year 2022-23, products worth $14.47 billion were produced in these zones.

Addressing the workshop, Beza Executive Chairman Ashik Chowdhury highlighted the organization’s commitment to sustainable industrialization. He noted that strategic planning and perseverance have been key to Beza’s growth, citing Narayanganj as an example of successful development through careful study and long-term planning.

Beza aims to create an environment where businesses thrive, innovation flourishes, and young entrepreneurs find opportunities, he added.