Bangladesh’s export processing zone network has expanded further as the BEPZA Economic Zone-2 in Mirsharai, Chattogram, began commercial export operations with its first shipment of machinery to Indonesia.
Lee’s Tobacco Machinery Company Ltd, the first company to start commercial operations at the zone, exported tobacco machinery worth $50,000 on Tuesday September, marking the beginning of export activities from the economic zone.
The development brings the total number of operational industrial zones under the Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA) to 10, comprising eight export processing zones (EPZs) and two economic zones.
The company received its first export permission from BEPZA on 3 September before making the shipment to Indonesia five days later. Owned by investors from the United Arab Emirates and Singapore, Lee’s Tobacco Machinery signed a land lease agreement with BEPZA on 3 February 2025. The company has invested $3.72 million and currently employs 29 officers, staff and workers.
BEPZA Economic Zone-2 is now entering its operational phase after becoming the first among 18 allotted enterprises in the zone to begin commercial production and exports. Three more companies are expected to start production and export activities soon, while the remaining 14 enterprises are still under construction.
Md Whaheduzzaman, Executive Director of BEPZA Economic Zone-2, said the first export to Indonesia could help Bangladesh diversify its export destinations. “The volume of exports from Bangladesh to Indonesia is comparatively low. In this context, the commencement of exports from BEPZA Economic Zone-2 to Indonesia is expected to contribute positively to expanding Bangladesh’s export market and diversifying its export destinations,” he said.
The export destination is significant as Bangladesh has traditionally relied on a limited number of markets, particularly for its major export products. Expanding shipments to new markets remains a priority as exporters face increasing global competition.
BEPZA Economic Zone was established on 1,138.55 acres of land in Mirsharai, Chattogram. To improve administrative and operational management, the large industrial area was divided into two separate zones — BEPZA Economic Zone-1 and BEPZA Economic Zone-2.
The government has already officially declared both as separate economic zones. The launch of exports from BEPZA Economic Zone-2 marks a new phase for the zone, shifting it from infrastructure development towards industrial production and export generation.
