Dhaka, Apr 10 (V7N) – The government is planning to establish a Free Trade Zone (FTZ) near the Matarbari deep sea port, a project that is drawing interest from global economic powers including the United Arab Emirates and China. The zone is expected to generate employment for at least 15,000 people, said Chowdhury Ashiq Mahmud bin Harun, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA).

Speaking at a press briefing on the third day of the ongoing Bangladesh Investment Summit, Harun revealed that Dubai-based logistics giant DP World is actively considering investment in the planned FTZ. He said, “DP World Chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, a VIP and close associate of the UAE royal family, is visiting Dhaka to discuss the project and is expected to meet the Chief Advisor.”

The summit, organized to boost foreign investment, has witnessed overwhelming participation from investors across China, Europe, and the Middle East. Harun noted that due to the heavy turnout, many visitors could not be accommodated, leading to future plans to shift the venue to the China Friendship Conference Center to meet growing demand.

Key Highlights:

  • Employment projection: The proposed FTZ near Matarbari is expected to create at least 15,000 jobs.

  • Global interest: Major investors from China, the UAE, and Europe are showing serious interest.

  • DP World involvement: The Emirati logistics giant is providing technical expertise and investment support for the FTZ.

  • Zara’s interest: A senior representative from global fashion brand Zara attended the summit and expressed positive views on investing in Bangladesh.

In response to questions from journalists, the BIDA chief disclosed that the government is also considering a separate investment zone dedicated to the defense industry. However, this would require policy reform, he added.

The growing Chinese interest in Bangladesh was underscored by an announcement that the Chinese Commerce Minister is scheduled to visit next month along with 200 investors. This visit is expected to further strengthen bilateral trade and economic cooperation.

The four-day Bangladesh Investment Summit, which began on April 7, aims to rebrand the country as a top destination for global investment. According to organizers, the third day of the summit has been the most eventful so far, with high-level investor interactions and major policy discussions.

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