Local entrepreneurs have been urged to invest in the under-construction Jamalpur Economic Zone to harness the opportunities available on the 436-acre site.
The government high-ups made the call at a seminar on 'Investment Opportunities in Jamalpur Economic Zone' at a city hotel on Monday afternoon.
The Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) organised the event where State Minister for Textile and Jute Mirza Azam was present as chief guest.
The officials said investors will enjoy nonstop utility supplies, modern infrastructure and one-stop service alongside getting fiscal and non-fiscal incentives.
Such facilities will not only help do business, but also strengthen the national economy for inclusive and balanced growth, they mentioned.
About the zone, BEZA General Manager (planning and development) Mohammed Shoheler Rahman Chowdhury said they have done a feasibility study to know the viability of industries there.
The findings showed agro-based industries, food processing, jute products, apparel, ceramic, pharmaceutical goods, medical equipment, leather and milk processing viable on the site, he added.
FBCCI President Md Shafiul Islam Mohiuddin said local entrepreneurs can set up their production bases there and export those to seven sisters in India where Bangladeshi products are in good demand.
"By doing so, we can bring diversification in our limited export basket. We've fertile land and huge water resources. So, our potentials in fish and food processing are enormous," he added.
The boss of the country's apex trade body suggested installation of a central ETP (Effluent Treatment Plant) and hydrant system.
BEZA Executive Chairman Paban Chowdhury said as Jamalpur Economic Zone is located on the country's least developed part, more investment is being made there.
"We want to attract investment. So, we need to ensure more components. So, we have to invest more," he stated.
Calling upon the local entrepreneurs to invest in the zone, Mr Chowdhury said local businesses should take the anchoring role to encourage others.
Md Abul Kalam Azad, principal coordinator (SDG) of the Prime Minister's Office, said the concept of economic zone ensures hassle-free land space for business.
"Businesses don't need to pay tax to the government in the first 10 years. A host of other fiscal and non-fiscal incentives is available there," he mentioned.
Mirza Azam made a commitment to businesses as a lawmaker of the area that no business will face hassle from any political groups.
He said construction of four lanes on Dhaka-Tangail highway is about to finish.
At the same time, Mr Azam said the government will start inviting tender for expansion of the road connecting Jamalpur from Elenga intersection (Dhaka-Tangail highway) next week.
The government plans to install 100 economic zones by 2030 to create 10 million jobs and export products worth $40 billion.
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