Bangladesh is preparing to take its next major step in industrial expansion as the Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority moves to establish new export processing zones in Rangpur and Sirajganj. The initiative reflects a strategic shift toward decentralizing industrial growth, bringing investment and employment opportunities to the northern regions of the country that have historically remained less industrialized.
Over the past four decades, Bepza has played a central role in shaping Bangladesh’s export driven economy. Established under the Prime Minister’s Office following the Bepza Act of 1980 and formally launched in 1981, the organization has built a strong foundation through eight operational export processing zones and two economic zones. These zones, despite occupying only 3,550.33 acres or less than 0.001 percent of the country’s total land area, contribute between 15 to 20 percent of national exports each year. In the fiscal year 2024 to 2025 alone, their contribution stood at 17.03 percent, highlighting the efficiency and productivity of these industrial clusters.
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The proposed expansion into Rangpur and Sirajganj is expected to further strengthen this impact. In Rangpur, around 450 acres of land from the Rangpur Sugar Mill area in Gobindaganj has already been handed over for the development of a new EPZ. Once operational, the zone is projected to create employment for more than one lakh people, significantly boosting the local economy. These developments are part of a broader plan that also includes ongoing EPZ projects in Jashore and Patuakhali, indicating a nationwide effort to distribute industrial activity more evenly.
Bepza’s success is not limited to volume alone. Over the last 45 years, the authority has attracted approximately 7.29 billion dollars in investment and facilitated exports exceeding 125 billion dollars. Currently, around 5.5 lakh people are employed within its zones, with a significant share being women. This has had a notable impact on social development, particularly in terms of income generation, skill development and women’s economic participation.
One of the key transformations within Bepza zones is the diversification of industries. While readymade garments once dominated production, today only about 32 percent of factories are engaged in garments manufacturing. The remaining 68 percent represent a wide range of sectors including automotive parts, electronics, camera lenses, footwear, bicycles and even specialized products like wigs. This diversification reduces dependency on a single sector and enhances Bangladesh’s resilience in global trade.
The Bepza Economic Zone in Mirsharai, Chattogram, stands as a recent example of this evolution. Initiated in 2018, the zone has already begun exporting products and attracting strong investor interest. Currently, eight companies are in full production there, five are in trial production and 34 are under various stages of implementation. The success of Mirsharai has strengthened confidence among both local and foreign investors, paving the way for further expansion in new regions.
Beyond industrial output, Bepza has also focused on creating a supportive ecosystem for workers. The organization has invested in modern hospitals and educational institutions within its zones, ensuring better living standards and welfare for employees. This integrated approach has helped bring marginalized communities into the economic mainstream, contributing to broader social progress.
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Looking ahead, the planned EPZs in Rangpur and Sirajganj are expected to play a crucial role in reshaping Bangladesh’s industrial landscape. By expanding beyond traditional hubs like Dhaka and Chattogram, the country aims to unlock new economic potential, reduce regional disparities and create a more balanced growth model.
As Bangladesh continues its journey toward becoming a more diversified and resilient economy, Bepza’s expansion strategy highlights a clear direction. Industrialization is no longer confined to established centres. It is moving toward new geographies, new sectors and new opportunities that can redefine the country’s economic future.