Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority has entered the 46th year of its operations on Wednesday since its formal inception in 1981.
According to a press release, BEPZA has grown from a visionary initiative into a key driver of the national economy and a global branding platform for ‘Made in Bangladesh.’
Although the EPZs occupy less than 0.001 per cent of the country›s total land area, around 3,550 acres, they play a significant role in export earnings and foreign investment.
In the 2024-25 fiscal year, BEPZA zones accounted for 17.03 per cent of national exports and 19.47 per cent of total foreign direct investment.
Over the past 45 years, the authority has attracted $7.29 billion in investment and facilitated exports worth over $125 billion.
Moreover, the efficiency of the zones is reflected in the contribution of each acre of land, which generates approximately Tk 13.82 crore annually for the economy.
The BEPZA has also contributed to industrial diversification beyond the ready-made garments sector.
At present, 32 per cent of its 450 active factories produce RMG products, while the remaining 68 per cent manufacture diverse goods including automobile parts, camera lenses, drones, archery equipment and caskets, said the press release.
The BEPZA Economic Zone in Mirsarai is emerging as a hub for high-tech industries, including the country›s first commercial drone manufacturing facility.
BEPZA currently employs over 5.5 lakh workers, a large portion of whose are women, contributing to social empowerment and workforce inclusion.
Workers in EPZs receive a minimum wage of Tk 12,800, excluding food and transport, compared with Tk 12,500, including allowances, at the factories outside.
The authority is also recognised for its commitment to sustainable industrialisation, with 27 LEED-certified green factories, including eight Platinum-rated units.
It has introduced Central Effluent Treatment Plants, renewable energy initiatives, and improved water management systems, the press release added.
To expand industrial capacity, BEPZA is developing two new EPZs in Jashore and Patuakhali, with plot allocation expected within the year.
Two additional EPZs have also been proposed for Rangpur and Sirajganj, said the BEPZA.
Despite global economic challenges, BEPZA signed investment agreements worth $629.93 million with 30 local and foreign companies in the first nine months of the 2025-26 fiscal year, reflecting continued investor confidence.
