Bangladesh Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Overview 2021
This report provides a comprehensive analysis of Bangladesh's Special Economic Zone (SEZ) landscape as of 2021 — covering BEZA's 100-zone development plan, operational and under-development zone status, tenant activity, incentive packages, and entry strategies for Korean companies.
The Bangladeshi government is designating and developing 100 SEZs through BEZA. As of 2021, 97 zones have been officially designated. More than 10 are operational, and country-specific dedicated zones — including the Japan SEZ (JSEZ) and China SEZ (CSEZ) — are also in operation.
97
Designated Zones
2021
10+
Operational
30+
Under Development
infrastructure
30,000+ ha
Total Planned Area
$10B+
Committed Investment
cumulative
10M
Employment Target
by 2030
Araihazar
JSEZ
Japan-dedicated
Under review
KSEZ
Korea-dedicated
Key Special Economic Zones
Bangladesh Key Special Economic Zones (2021)
| Zone Name | Location | Area | Status | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bangabandhu BSMSN | Near Dhaka | 1,000 ha | Operational | Multi-use; Korean tenants present |
| Mirsarai | Chittagong | 30,000+ ha | Under development | Largest zone |
| JSEZ Araihazar | Near Dhaka | 1,000 ha | Under development | Japan-dedicated |
| Mongla | Khulna | 200 ha | Operational | Port-adjacent |
| Sirajganj | Near Dhaka | 350 ha | Operational | Textiles & manufacturing |
SEZ Incentive Package
Tax Incentives
Corporate Tax10-year 100% holiday
Additional Holiday50% for 5 years after
CustomsMachinery & raw materials duty-free
VATExempt within zone
Operational Benefits
One-Stop ServiceBEZA integrated services
RemittanceFree repatriation guaranteed
Land TenureLong-term lease (50 years)
InfrastructurePower, gas, and water supply
Korean Company SEZ Entry Strategies
01
Pursuing a Korea-Dedicated SEZ (KSEZ)
The Korean government and BEZA are in discussions about designating a Korea-dedicated Special Economic Zone (KSEZ). Modeled on the Japan SEZ (JSEZ Araihazar) and China SEZ (CSEZ), a KSEZ would concentrate Korean companies in a single location with Korea-standard infrastructure (power, telecoms, housing) and Korean-language services.
02
Entry into Existing Zones
Before a KSEZ is confirmed, Korean companies can enter existing zones such as Bangabandhu, Mirsarai, or Sirajganj individually. Applications (online), land leases, construction permits, and operational licenses are all processed through BEZA's one-stop service. Korean textile, manufacturing, and electronics companies already established in these zones provide a reference point.
03
SEZ Infrastructure Projects
Korean construction and infrastructure firms can participate in building economic zone infrastructure — roads, power, water, telecoms, and residential facilities. This involves bidding on EPC contracts issued by BEZA, with EDCF and ADB-financed projects as priority targets.
04
SEZ Investment Partnerships
Collaborate with KOTRA, BIDA, and BEZA to systematically support Korean company investment in SEZs. Develop investment advisory, market research, legal consulting, and entry support packages, and organize regular investment roadshows in Korea.
SEZ Entry Flow
Special Economic Zone Entry Process
Zone Selection
BEZA consultation
→↓
Application
Online application
→↓
Land Lease
50-year long-term
→↓
Construction
Building permit
→↓
Operations
Production & export
The expansion of Bangladesh's SEZ network and its incentive package offer Korean manufacturing and infrastructure companies an optimal investment environment.
2021 BEZA UpdateExplore BEZA updates for 2021
2021 FDI TrendsExplore Bangladesh FDI trends in 2021
Special Economic ZoneSEZBEZAIndustrial Park2021
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