BEPZA Zones Buck National Trend with 2.2% Export Growth and Record Investment

The Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA) has reported $8.41 billion in exports from its zones in fiscal year 2025-26, representing a 2.2% increase year-on-year. 📈 This positive growth stands in stark contrast to the national export decline of 0.58% during the same period. ✅

💰 Record Investment

BEPZA also attracted a record $718 million in new investment proposals during FY26, demonstrating continued investor confidence in the EPZ model. 🏭 The investment came from both domestic and foreign sources, with particular interest from Chinese, Korean, and Japanese investors. 🌏

🔍 Why EPZs Outperformed

Several factors contributed to BEPZA's stronger performance compared to the national average:

• ⚡ Better infrastructure — EPZs have dedicated power, gas, and utility connections
• 📋 Streamlined regulations — single-window clearance for businesses
• 🚢 Customs facilitation — simplified import-export procedures within zones
• 💰 Tax benefits — duty-free import of raw materials and machinery
• 🔌 Reliable energy — priority gas and electricity supply to EPZ factories

📊 Contribution to National Exports

BEPZA zones now contribute approximately 17.51% of Bangladesh's total national exports. 🎯 The $8.41 billion in EPZ exports represents a significant and growing share of the country's export earnings, highlighting the importance of the EPZ model for export growth.

🏭 Investment Breakdown

The $718 million in new investment proposals includes:

• 👕 Apparel and textile manufacturing — largest share of new investment
• ⚡ Electronics and electrical equipment — growing sector
• 💊 Pharmaceuticals — expanding production capacity
• 🌾 Agro-processing — value-added food exports
• 🚲 Engineering products — including bicycle and component manufacturing

🚀 Future Outlook

BEPZA's success in attracting investment and growing exports despite national challenges suggests that the EPZ model could be a template for broader industrial policy reform. 💡 The government's planned free trade zones, which will allow duty-free stocking of raw materials, could further enhance the competitiveness of export-oriented manufacturing in Bangladesh. 🌟