DHAKA, 11 April 2025 (BSS) – The Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA) has announced that plot allocation for investors in the upcoming Patuakhali Export Processing Zone (EPZ) is scheduled to begin in early 2026, marking a key milestone in the region’s industrial transformation.
Development Progress and Timeline
According to BEPZA Executive Chairman, Major General Abul Kalam Mohammad Ziaur Rahman, approximately 55% of the land development work has already been completed. While the full infrastructure development is expected to conclude by June 2026, plot allocation and factory construction are set to begin in parallel from the first quarter of 2026.
“Factory construction work and land development will continue simultaneously,” said the BEPZA Chairman in an interview with BSS.
Strategic Location & Connectivity
The Patuakhali EPZ is poised to become a key industrial hub, thanks to its enhanced connectivity via the Padma Bridge and proximity to Payra Port. These infrastructure developments offer significant logistical advantages for importing raw materials and exporting finished goods.
Economic Impact at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Pachakoralia Mouza, Auliapur Union, Patuakhali Sadar Upazila |
| Total Area | 410.78 acres |
| Number of Industrial Plots | 306 |
| Employment Potential | Approx. 100,000 jobs |
| Total Project Cost | Tk 1,443 crore |
| – Government Contribution | Tk 1,105 crore |
| – BEPZA Contribution | Tk 338 crore |
Key Infrastructure Under Development
The Patuakhali EPZ project includes a comprehensive set of facilities to support a fully functioning industrial zone:
3.15 lakh metres of roads
30,000 metres of drainage systems
Four six-storey factory buildings
Three 10-storey administrative office buildings
Four six-storey and three 10-storey residential buildings
Zone, customs, and security offices
A helipad for logistics and emergency use
54 rehabilitation houses for displaced landowners
Electrical substations for uninterrupted power supply
BEPZA’s Expanding EPZ Network
Patuakhali EPZ will be the ninth addition to BEPZA’s growing network of Export Processing Zones across the country. The current operational zones include:
Chattogram EPZ
Dhaka EPZ
Mongla EPZ
Ishwardi EPZ
Cumilla EPZ
Uttara EPZ
Adamjee EPZ
Karnaphuli EPZ
Outlook
The new EPZ is expected to be a catalyst for socioeconomic development in the southwestern region of Bangladesh, contributing to both export growth and massive job creation. Officials anticipate strong interest from domestic and foreign investors once plots are officially available.
With an emphasis on strategic location, integrated infrastructure, and government-backed support, the Patuakhali EPZ is shaping up to be a transformative venture in Bangladesh’s industrial landscape.