The Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (Bepza) has reported significant growth in exports and employment for the fiscal year 2024–25, driven by a substantial increase in foreign investment.
In FY ’25, Bepza received investment proposals totaling approximately US $ 497.48 million, with the potential to create around 59,408 new jobs for Bangladeshi nationals. During the year, the authority signed 33 new investment agreements with investors from countries including China, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Ireland, the British Virgin Islands, Singapore, India, and the United Arab Emirates.
The zones under Bepza, comprising eight EPZs and the Bepza Economic Zone, achieved exports worth US $ 8.22 billion, representing a 16.22% increase compared to the previous year. Since its establishment, Bepza has facilitated exports valued at US $ 119 billion, with products reaching over 120 countries worldwide.
Employment within Bepza-administered zones rose to 533,527 as of June 2025, up from 500,110 the previous year, reflecting ongoing industrial expansion and new investments.
However, investment in capital machinery and fixed assets declined to US $ 292.77 million from US $ 350.93 million in FY 2023–24, a dip attributed to short-term global and domestic economic adjustments. Despite this, Bepza remains optimistic about a future rebound.
Currently, 450 of the 563 industrial units operated by Bepza are active. Of these, approximately 33% produce garments, 18% manufacture accessories, and 9% are involved in textiles. The remaining 40% produce a diverse range of goods, including medical devices, electronics, furniture, and fashion items.
In addition to existing zones, Bepza is developing two new EPZs in Jashore and Patuakhali, with plans to allocate plots to investors starting next year.
