Bangladesh’s long-delayed Chinese Economic Zone (EZ) projects have entered a new phase of implementation, with renewed government efforts expected to attract billions of dollars in foreign direct investment (FDI) and create approximately 150,000 direct manufacturing jobs.
The renewed momentum follows agreements reached during Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s recent official visit to China, which revived the long-pending dedicated Chinese industrial zones in Anwara, Chattogram, and Mongla, Bagerhat after nearly a decade of delays.
Strategically located near the Karnaphuli Tunnel and Chattogram Port, the Anwara Economic Zone is projected to generate around 100,000 jobs by attracting export-oriented industries, including ready-made garments, pharmaceuticals, light engineering, semiconductors, electronics and medical equipment.
The Mongla Port-based industrial zone is expected to create an additional 50,000 direct jobs through the development of integrated logistics facilities, bonded warehouses and cold-chain infrastructure, strengthening Bangladesh’s supply chain capabilities and export competitiveness.
To accelerate implementation, the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) has restructured the project framework, while the government has approved Tk4,189 crore for supporting infrastructure, including concessional financing from China.
Officials believe the revitalised economic zones could also unlock a broader pipeline of Chinese investment valued at approximately $9.21 billion across 11 industrial sectors, reinforcing Bangladesh’s ambition to become a leading manufacturing and investment destination in South Asia.
Industry analysts, however, caution that the success of the projects will depend on timely infrastructure development, uninterrupted energy supply, efficient project execution and an investor-friendly business environment.
If implemented as planned, the Chinese Economic Zones are expected to significantly enhance Bangladesh’s industrial capacity, diversify exports, strengthen global supply chain integration and create large-scale employment opportunities, further deepening economic cooperation between Bangladesh and China.
