Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Shilpa Nagar (BSMSN) is an economic zone in Chittagong division of Bangladesh spanning over 30,000 acres of land in Mirsarai, Sitakunda and Sonagazi upazilas formed from consolidating their respective economic zones.[1] Situated along the Dhaka-Chittagong highway, the economic zone is positioned about 60 kilometers away from the port city of Chittagong. It is being developed under the oversight of the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority.[2]
Development edit
The project is estimated to require a total investment of BDT 4,347 crores for construction. The World Bank has provided a loan of BDT 3,967 crore, while the remaining BDT 379 crore is being funded by the government. The objective of the project is to transform the industrial city into a self-sustaining, globally competitive industrial hub, complete with seaports, railway and road networks, power facilities, waterfront promenades, and residential zones. Additionally, plans include the establishment of five-star hotels, tourist destinations, parks, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and universities within the area.[2]
As of February 2024[update], five industrial units are in commercial operations in the economic zone, with 22 more under construction.[3][4] As of 2021, the authority has received $20.13 billion from investors looking to set up factories in the area.[5]
Industries edit
The project area encompasses several specialized zones, notably a 500-acre zone designated for the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA). Additionally, various other industries are planned to be established within the region, including agro-products and agro-processing machinery, integrated textiles, leather and leather products, shipbuilding, motorbike accessories, food and beverages, paints and chemicals, paper and related products, plastics, light engineering, and pharmaceutical industries.[2]
See also edit
References edit
- ^ "3 economic zones in Chittagong to be consolidated and renamed after Bangabandhu". Dhaka Tribune. 2018-09-27. Retrieved 2024-02-27.
- ^ a b c "Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Shilpa Nagar: A Big Step to Economic Development". Daily Sun. 2023-03-18. Retrieved 2024-02-27.
- ^ "Authority eyes investment influx in Mirsarai EZ as facilities readied". The Financial Express. Retrieved 2024-02-27.
- ^ "Factories start commercial production in Bangabandhu Shilpa Nagar". The Financial Express. Retrieved 2024-02-27.
- ^ "Dhaka receives $20.13b investment proposals from 153 investors". Prothom Alo English. 2021-07-31. Retrieved 2024-02-27.