BEZA Seeks Foreign Investment for Ambitious NSEZ Project in Ctg

The Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) extended an invitation to foreign investors on Monday to explore opportunities at the National Special Economic Zone (NSEZ), a flagship project aimed at transforming Bangladesh's industrial landscape and establishing a robust platform for global trade and investment.

This call came as a delegation of around 60 foreign investors visited the NSEZ to assess its potential firsthand. The delegation included investors from South Korea, India, China, Japan, Australia, and the Netherlands.

"We want to showcase Bangladesh as a stable and thriving country brimming with investment opportunities," said a BEZA official, addressing the visiting investors at the NSEZ.

The visit was part of the Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025, which kicked off in Dhaka on Monday. This event marks a significant milestone in reinforcing Bangladesh's commitment to economic progress, investment-friendly policies, and sustainable growth.

Strategically located on the southeastern coast of Bangladesh, the NSEZ benefits from proximity to the Bay of Bengal, with convenient access to major transportation routes, including the Dhaka-Chattogram national highway, Chattogram port, and airport. This makes it an ideal destination for industries looking to tap into both domestic and international markets.

"For the first time, foreign investors have been given the chance to tour the facilities in person. Their reactions have been overwhelmingly positive as they see the potential of this project with their own eyes," said Abul Kalam Azad Majumder, Deputy Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, in a statement to UNB.

An Expanding Industrial City with Global Appeal

The NSEZ is designed to attract both domestic and foreign investments across a wide range of sectors, including chemicals, basic steel, garments, leather products, pharmaceuticals, electronics, automobiles, and agro-processing. Its focus is on fostering export-oriented and import-substitute industries to support and expand local value chains.

The project is not only an industrial hub but also a comprehensive urban development. The industrial city will include residential areas, a financial district, educational institutions, tourism facilities, and a variety of other amenities aimed at ensuring a high quality of life for workers and their families.

Sustainability and Smart Design

To ensure the long-term viability of the project, the NSEZ will incorporate renewable energy solutions, stringent environmental and social compliance management, green zones, and dedicated areas for waste treatment and effluent management. These features will promote sustainable industrialization while minimizing the environmental footprint.

The project is expected to boost export earnings significantly, contributing to GDP growth and setting a benchmark for economic zones across Bangladesh.

As of now, the NSEZ has attracted approximately $19 billion in local and foreign investment proposals. BEZA officials report that there are about 155 active investors, with plans to establish over 500 industries in the future.

Progress in Development

Currently, 11 factories have begun operations within the zone, including major names like Asian Paints, Nippon-Macdonald Steel, Modern Syntex, Jinyoun Chemical, Samuda Construction, Jeihong, and Marico, among others. Additionally, 28 more industries are under construction at the NSEZ.

The zone is gradually taking shape as a smart, well-planned, and self-sustaining industrial city, with all government agencies working in close coordination to ensure smooth development and effective results.

Positive Outlook from Global Investors

Rabiul Chowdhury, Founder & CEO of Naples Properties LLC, praised BEZA's efforts to streamline processes and build investor confidence. "BIDA's initiatives reflect a larger shift towards openness, transparency, and global competitiveness," he said.

"As an investor, I’ve seen firsthand how these reforms have unlocked real opportunities for strong returns," Chowdhury continued. "Looking ahead, I am hopeful that we will see more US-Bangladesh trade missions, business forums, and policy cooperation. Strengthening this bilateral relationship can drive economic growth, foster innovation, and create shared prosperity."

In addition, the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has called on BEZA to expedite the construction of the Garment Village in Mirsarai, a key component of the broader development vision for the NSEZ.

The ambitious NSEZ project is poised to redefine Bangladesh's industrial capabilities, further solidifying the nation's position as an emerging economic powerhouse in South Asia.