The Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) has awarded a pre-qualification license to the “Bhola Eco-Development Economic Zone” to unlock new economic opportunities in the southern region of the country.
Located in Bhola Sadar Upazila, the zone will initially cover 102.46 acres, with plans to expand to 158 acres. The zone is designed to be an environmentally friendly, labour-intensive, and agriculture-based industrial hub.
Planned industries include fish processing, meat processing, dairy product production, and other agriculture-based factories, BEZA announced. The zone will host around 40 industrial units, expected to generate direct and indirect employment for around 100,000 people, with an estimated investment of nearly $1 billion.
BEZA Executive Member for Planning and Development Mohammad Nazrul Islam said, “The Bhola Eco-Development Economic Zone will be the first economic zone in the Barishal division, with Chinese firm Logi Fashion Industry Limited as the developer.”
“This zone will significantly boost fisheries and agriculture-based industries, making it an attractive destination for both domestic and international investors,” he added.
Zhuang Lifeng, Managing Director of Bhola Eco-Development Economic Zone, said the project aims to create a circular, environmentally sustainable economic zone.
He also mentioned that Chinese investors have shown keen interest in the zone, which will leverage Bhola’s gas and agricultural resources to attract foreign investment.
Logi Fashion Industry Limited, a Chinese investment company, has already made significant investments in Bangladesh’s garment, textile, and other sectors. The company is committed to sustainable, export-oriented production.
BEZA believes that the Bhola Eco-Development Economic Zone will usher in a new industrial era in the southern region, generating job opportunities, boosting exports, and advancing Bangladesh’s textile industry. BEZA has already granted licenses to 13 private economic zones.