Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (Beza) is focusing on making five economic zones fully functional within the next two years, which will attract $5.5 billion in investments and create over 200,000 job opportunities.

The targeted zones include the National Special Economic Zone, Sylhet Economic Zone, Jamalpur Economic Zone, Maheshkhali Economic Zone, and the Japanese Economic Zone.

Beza’s executive chairman, Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, emphasized at a press briefing that setting up 100 economic zones is neither financially nor technically viable. Instead, Beza aims to launch 10 key zones within the next decade to achieve its primary goals. He added that priority zones like the national special economic, Japanese, and Jamalpur zones will pave the way for future expansions.

After consultations with stakeholders, Beza provided the necessary infrastructure and utility services at the five most in-demand zones. Five additional zones—Chinese Industrial Economic Zone, Sabrang Tourism Park, Chandpur Economic Zone, Kurigram Economic Zone, and Kushtia Economic Zone—are being assessed for the next development phase.

The remaining zones will be repurposed for uses such as solar power generation, reopening jute and sugar mills, or attracting new investors by offering utility services. Beza also plans to streamline operations by bringing the Korean Export Processing Zone (KEPZ) under its jurisdiction, subject to completing some official formalities.

Ashik stressed the importance of coordinated efforts across government departments to implement time-bound plans and encouraged investors to commence operations in acquired lands. He warned that Beza would reclaim unused land. Ashik also highlighted the need for ensuring utility services in private economic zones, pressing the government to fulfill its commitments to support private-sector-led development.