Online Report

Around 70 foreign investors and company representatives from countries including Korea, China, Japan, Australia, and India visited the Korean Export Processing Zone (KEPZ) in Anwara and the National Special Economic Zone (NSEZ) in Mirsarai on Sunday, marking the formal beginning of the Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025.

The four-day summit, organized by the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), aims to highlight Bangladesh’s evolving investment landscape and promote opportunities across key industrial sectors. The field visits offered foreign investors firsthand insights into the country’s industrial infrastructure and investment-friendly environment.

The foreign delegation visited several manufacturing units operated by South Korea’s Youngone Corporation—a pioneer in Bangladesh’s RMG and textile sectors and the developer of KEPZ. The zone, which spans 2,492 acres along the Karnaphuli River, is the largest privately owned and eco-friendly export processing zone in the country. It houses 48 green-certified factories over 7 million square feet, with advanced logistics and warehousing facilities.

Located just 15 minutes from Shah Amanat International Airport via the Karnaphuli Tunnel, KEPZ is seen as a strategic investment destination and a model for sustainable industrial development.

During the visit, the investors received a multimedia presentation from BIDA officials, highlighting the facilities, operations, and investment potential of both KEPZ and NSEZ. The tour also included a Q&A session with factory workers, who expressed satisfaction with workplace conditions.

Youngone Corporation Chairman Kihak Sung, who personally welcomed the delegation, praised the interim government’s proactive approach in creating a favorable climate for foreign direct investment.

“You can count on this new administration in Bangladesh,” Sung told the investors. “This government is serious about providing all necessary support to investors. While some administrative challenges remain, Bangladesh remains one of the best destinations for profitable investments.”

He also cited Youngone’s long-standing success and continued expansion in the country as a testament to Bangladesh’s potential and resilience.

When asked by a Chinese investor about challenges faced by foreign companies, Sung acknowledged administrative complexities but underscored the country’s profitability, workforce readiness, and strategic location as major advantages.

The visit concluded with presentations at the National Special Economic Zone, where investors observed ongoing development efforts and met with local officials and stakeholders.

The Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025 will officially be inaugurated by Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday at Hotel Intercontinental, Dhaka. The summit will continue until April 10, featuring thematic sessions, roundtable discussions, and networking events involving global executives, industry pioneers, and policymakers.

As Bangladesh redefines its role in the global investment map, the summit aims to showcase the nation’s readiness for transformative growth and collaboration with international partners.