The government is considering setting up a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) or an Export Processing Zone (EPZ) in Fatikchhari upazila of Chattogram, raising hopes of industrialisation and employment generation in the region.
The proposal came following a demand raised in parliament by local lawmaker Sarwar Alamgir, who called for an export-oriented industrial zone to tap the area’s investment potential.
Replying to a starred question from the lawmaker during the fourth session of parliament, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said the proposal to establish an economic or industrial zone in Fatikchhari was under review.
The minister, who is also in charge of the Prime Minister’s Office, said the proposal had been forwarded to the relevant authorities, considering the upazila’s geographical location and investment potential.
An assessment is underway to determine land availability and the presence of essential infrastructure, including electricity, gas and water, in the proposed area, he added.
On the first day of the parliamentary session, Alamgir raised the issue through a notice of urgent public importance under Rule 71. He urged the government to establish an export-oriented EPZ in Fatikchhari and sought support for a high-level technical delegation from the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) to assess the area’s investment potential.
Covering around 774 square kilometres and home to more than 10 lakh people, Fatikchhari is known for its tea and rubber plantations, agricultural resources and natural attractions. Its proximity to Chattogram city also makes it a potential investment destination.
Despite these advantages, the upazila has yet to develop a major industrial hub. As a result, many young people leave the area for Chattogram city, other parts of the country or abroad in search of employment.
The latest proposal follows a meeting between Alamgir and BIDA Chairman Ashik Chowdhury on 12 August, when the lawmaker proposed establishing a modern, well-planned economic zone in Fatikchhari. He was assured that a committee would be formed and a survey team deployed to assess its feasibility.
Talking to BSS, Alamgir said Fatikchhari had significant potential for agro-based industries, food processing, tea and rubber-related industries, light engineering and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
“If these opportunities are harnessed through planned industrialisation, it will bring about a significant transformation in the local economy,” he said.
He said BIDA should play an active role in promoting Fatikchhari as an investment destination for domestic and foreign investors by identifying potential sectors, preparing data-driven investment profiles and organising specialised investment meetings and roadshows.
“I hope that a high-level delegation from BIDA will visit Fatikchhari soon to assess its potential,” he added.
Local residents have called for a speedy feasibility study, a practical development plan and the necessary facilities to attract investors.
Shawkat Ullah Chowdhury, a resident of Nazirhat Municipality and a Chattogram businessman, described the initiative as highly positive for Fatikchhari.
He said effectively utilising the area’s natural resources and economic potential could contribute to national development.
Chowdhury expressed hope that the establishment of an economic zone would accelerate industrialisation and create new employment opportunities in the region.
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