Timely decision by government for EPZ investors

Export earnings from all the export processing zones (EPZs) saw a steady 4.38 per cent growth year-on-year during the last fiscal. Factories inside the EPZs received $333.38 million in foreign direct investment (FDI) and earned $7.52 billion from exports.

Amidst all this success, the government decision to quicken services for factories inside the EPZs is very timely. As per the new government decision, investors at the EPZs will get on arrival visa, security clearance for a work permit within 21 days, gas connection within seven days and electricity connection within two weeks. Other services will also be provided quickly to them. The decision should be implemented immediately.

Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA) is trying to ensure a favourable investment climate for foreign and local investors. The government must send letters to all EPZ factories to inform them of this decision so that they can enjoy these facilities without any delay.

Such measures will hopefully improve Bangladesh's ranking in the 'Ease of doing business' index.

Mohammed Sohel Hara

Banasree, Dhaka