A ‘Seminar on Investment Opportunities in Jamalpur Economic Zone’ has been held at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel on 4th June to inspire local investors to capitalize in the first ever under-construction economic zone in Mymensingh division.
State Minister for Textile and Jute Mirza Azam was present at the seminar as chief guest while Md. Abul Kalam Azad, Principal coordinator (SDG) of the Prime Minister’s office and Md. Shafiul Islam Chowdhury, FBCCI President as special guests. Executive Chairman of BEZA, Paban Chowdhury presided over the seminar.
In the seminar, BEZA General Manager (planning and development) Mohammed Shoheler Rahman Chowdhury said that a feasibility study has been done to know the viability of industries there.He added the findings showed agro-based industries, food processing, jute products, apparel, ceramic, pharmaceutical goods, medical equipment, leather and milk processing are viable on the site.FBCCI President Md Shafiul Islam Mohiuddin said local entrepreneurs can set up their production bases there and export those to seven sisters in India where Bangladeshi products are in good demand.
He conveyed, business community can diversify Bangladesh’s limited export basket by using fertile land and huge water resources. He expressed that potentials for fish and food processing should be explored.The head of the country’s apex trade body suggested installation of a central ETP (Effluent Treatment Plant) and hydrant system within the zone for eco-friendly production.Md Abul Kalam Azad, principal coordinator (SDG) of the Prime Minister’s Office, said the concept of economic zone ensures hassle-free land space for business.He mentioned that businesses do not need to pay tax to the government in the first 10 years and a host of other fiscal and non-fiscal incentives is available there.He said investors will enjoy nonstop utility supplies, modern infrastructure and one-stop service alongside other incentives.BEZA Executive Chairman Paban Chowdhury said as Jamalpur Economic Zone is located on the country’s least developed part, more investment is being made there.Calling upon the local entrepreneurs to invest in the zone, Mr Chowdhury said local businesses should take the anchoring role to encourage others. BEZA head expressed his hope that, development work of this zone will be finished by March 2019 and then allocation of land will commence. State minister Mirza Azam made a commitment as a lawmaker of the area that no business will face hassle from any political groups.He informed construction of Dhaka-Tangail four lane highway is about to be finished while inviting tender for expansion of the road connecting Jamalpur from Elenga intersection will start next week.
About 200 participants including businessmen, investors, civil society leaders and officials from different departments of the government took part in the seminar. It is to be mentioned that Zamalpur Economic Zone will be established on 436 acre land. Approximately 32000 employment opportunities will be created with the successful implementation of the zone. Possible inspection on railway connectivity with the zone has begun alongside land development and work on gas and electricity connection.
