The Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA) has attracted around US$3 million in investment per acre of land, generating an annual return of Tk 13.82 crore per acre through the optimal utilization of limited industrial land.
The information was disclosed at a 'Meet the Investors' event organized by BEPZA in Chattogram today, where more than 100 local and foreign investors from the Chattogram, Karnaphuli and Cumilla export processing zones (EPZs) and BEPZA Economic Zones participated, said a press release here today.
Speaking at the event, BEPZA Executive Chairman Major General Mohammad Moazzem Hossain said the authority was committed to strengthening partnerships with investors, addressing their concerns and making the investment environment more competitive and business-friendly.
Referring to global trade uncertainties, disruptions in energy markets and supply chains, and rising business costs, he appreciated the resilience of investors operating in the country's export-oriented industrial zones despite power and infrastructure challenges.
He also highlighted the contribution of EPZ workers to producing a diverse range of export products, including garments, footwear, jewellery, spectacles, bags, safety equipment and bridal wear for international markets.
The executive chairman said the declaration of BEPZA Economic Zone-1, BEPZA Economic Zone-2, Jashore EPZ and Patuakhali EPZ as full-fledged zones was another significant milestone.
He called on investors to expand their businesses in the new zones in collaboration with their supply-chain partners.
BEPZA Member (Investment Promotion) Md. Tanvir Hossain said the authority was making a significant contribution to the national economy by ensuring the optimal use of limited land in its operational zones.
He highlighted BEPZA's achievements in investment attraction, export growth, employment generation, technology transfer and the development of a more investment-friendly environment.
During fiscal year 2025-26, BEPZA signed investment agreements with 36 enterprises, while exports from its zones reached US$8.41 billion, marking a 2.22 percent increase over the previous fiscal year.
During the event, BEPZA officials also highlighted initiatives to improve workers' welfare, strengthen employer-worker relations, reform labour regulations and expand digital services for investors.
Additional Executive Director (Enterprise Services and Industrial Relations) Md. Nazmul Islam Bhuiyan outlined initiatives relating to labour law reform, workers' welfare and the implementation of the Employment Injury Scheme (EIS).
The authority has introduced 45 online services and operates a 24-hour helpline at 16128 to facilitate investor services and address concerns.
An open discussion session between BEPZA officials and investors focused on investment expansion, operational challenges, available services and opportunities to improve the business environment.
Participants also exchanged views on the Bangladesh EPZ Labour Act, 2019, with BEPZA reaffirming its commitment to protecting the interests of both investors and workers in line with international labour standards.
Established in 1980, BEPZA oversees eight EPZs and two economic zones, attracting investment from 38 countries.
Total investment in these zones stands at approximately US$7.50 billion, while cumulative exports have reached around US$130 billion, reports BSS.
BEPZA's zones account for approximately 20 percent of Bangladesh's total exports, while the authority accounts for 19.17 percent of the country's total foreign direct investment (FDI).