EIPP Program Structure
The official EIPP (Enabling Infrastructure through Public-Private Partnership) 2023 brochure is a comprehensive guide to the program's overall framework and participation pathway. It is jointly operated by the Korean government, represented by the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Office for Government Policy Coordination, and the Bangladesh government, represented by ERD and BEZA. The delivery model rests on three pillars: policy advisory support by KDI, investment promotion by KOTRA, and financing support by the Export-Import Bank of Korea.
Seven Priority Investment Sectors
EIPP designates seven investment sectors in line with Bangladesh's industrial diversification strategy. For each sector, the brochure outlines the incentive package, recommended economic zones, indicative investment size, and profitability outlook. It also introduces existing Korean business cases and the main factors behind successful market entry.
| Sector | Recommended Zone | Indicative Size | Incentive | Korean Presence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light Manufacturing | Mirsarai | $120M | 12-year corporate tax holiday | 5 companies active |
| Electronics and ICT | Araihazar | $80M | 10-year tax holiday + R&D support | 2 companies interested |
| Energy | Mongla | $100M | Guaranteed power purchase agreement | 3 firms investing |
| Agro-processing | Rajshahi | $50M | 10-year tax holiday + export support | 1 company active |
| Pharmaceuticals | Gazipur | $60M | 12-year tax holiday + IP support | Strong interest |
| Logistics | Chattogram | $55M | Bonded zone operating approval | 2 companies reviewing |
| Auto Parts | Mirsarai | $35M | 10-year tax holiday + tariff exemptions | Emerging field |
Detailed Incentive Package
The incentive package for EIPP participants goes beyond Bangladesh's standard investment incentives. The core benefits include a 10-year corporate tax holiday, with possible extension, a full guarantee on dividend repatriation, long-term land leases of up to 50 years, duty exemptions on imported machinery and raw materials, and fast-track processing for visas and work permits.
Participation Process
For Korean companies, EIPP participation proceeds through five stages: an initial KOTRA consultation, submission of a PCP (Project Concept Paper), joint review by BEZA and KDI, execution of an MOU, and implementation of the investment. The brochure suggests that the entire process typically takes around six months, with KOTRA Dhaka providing practical support throughout the cycle.