BEPZA turns 46: Behind Bangladesh’s $125bn exports

The Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA), a pioneer investment promotion agency, stepped into its 46th year of operations on Wednesday, marking four and a half decades of transformative impact on industrialisation, exports, and employment.

Operating under the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), BEPZA’s journey began following the BEPZA Act 1980, an initiative aimed at attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) during the post-independence economic reconstruction.

The entity officially commenced its journey via a gazette notification on April 15, 1981, eventually ushering in a new era of export-led growth with the launch of Chattogram EPZ in 1983.

Economic Giant on Minimal Land

BEPZA has set a global benchmark for achieving high economic returns from limited land resources. Occupying only 3,550 acres – less than 0.001% of the country’s total land mass – the EPZs contribute nearly 15%-20% of Bangladesh’s total national exports. In the fiscal year FY2024-25, BEPZA’s contribution to national exports stood at 17.03%.

Over the last 45 years, the authority has attracted cumulative investments worth US$7.29 billion and facilitated the export of goods valued at more than $125 billion.

Current Footprint and Expansion

Currently, BEPZA manages eight EPZs: Chattogram, Dhaka, Mongla, Cumilla, Uttara, Ishwardi, Adamjee and Karnaphuli, alongside the BEPZA Economic Zone in Mirsharai, Chattogram. Work on establishing new EPZs in Jashore and Patuakhali is also progressing rapidly.

The agency famously revitalised the national industrial landscape by converting non-profitable state enterprises, such as the Adamjee Jute Mills and Chattogram Steel Mills, into high-performing EPZs.

Employment and Women Empowerment

The zones currently employ approximately 5.5 lakh Bangladeshi citizens. A significant majority of this workforce consists of women, playing a pivotal role in the country’s social development and female empowerment.

Beyond employment, BEPZA ensures worker welfare through dedicated hospitals, day-care centres, and educational institutions within the zones.

Diversification and Green Industrialisation

While the ready-made garment (RMG) sector remains a core component, BEPZA has successfully diversified the "Made in Bangladesh" portfolio. High-value products manufactured in the zones now include automobile parts and electronic components, camera lenses and eyeglasses frames, bicycles, and high-end footwear.

Furthermore, BEPZA is leading the way in sustainable manufacturing with 27 LEED-certified green factories (including eight Platinum-rated). As of March 2026, the zones produce 32 MW of solar power, with a target to meet 25% of their total electricity demand from solar energy by 2030.

The ‘Brand’ of Trust

With its long-standing "One Window Service" model, BEPZA has become a symbol of reliability for both local and foreign investors. By ensuring strict compliance, a safe working environment, and efficient management, the authority continues to serve as a successful model for global industrialisation.

As it enters its 46th year, BEPZA remains committed to driving sustainable and inclusive economic growth for Bangladesh, reports UNB.