Tk4,189cr allocated for roads, jetty, utilities at Chinese industrial zone

The government has approved a Tk4,189 crore project aimed at developing key infrastructure for the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone (CEIZ) in Chattogram, marking a significant step forward for one of Bangladesh’s most prominent foreign investment initiatives.

The approval came at a meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC), chaired by Prime Minister and ECNEC Chairperson Tarique Rahman at the Bangladesh Secretariat on Monday.

The project focuses on building the external infrastructure required to make the economic zone fully operational. Planned facilities include access roads, a multipurpose jetty, water storage systems, gas regulating stations, electrical substations, and specialised treatment plants for industrial waste and effluents. These facilities are expected to support future industrial activities within the zone and attract greater foreign investment.

Located near the Karnaphuli Tunnel, the economic zone is strategically positioned with direct connectivity to the country’s main seaport, enhancing its appeal as a manufacturing and export hub.

The project traces its origins to October 2016, when Xi Jinping laid the foundation stone during his state visit to Bangladesh. The initiative was launched under broader investment cooperation agreements between the two countries and became one of the flagship projects linked to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

Following the signing of bilateral agreements, the Bangladesh government acquired around 800 acres of land for the exclusive Chinese economic enclave. However, despite its high-profile launch, the project experienced years of delays due to administrative and procedural challenges.

A renewed push began in 2023 when China Road and Bridge Corporation was appointed to develop the zone’s external infrastructure. The project later underwent multiple reviews and revisions after concerns were raised regarding compliance and planning requirements.

The deadlock was eventually resolved in May 2026 when a revised Development Project Proposal was submitted and accepted. Of the approved Tk4,189 crore budget, Tk2,467 crore will come through Chinese loans.

The CEIZ infrastructure project was the largest among five projects worth a combined Tk7,036.36 crore approved by ECNEC at the meeting, underscoring its importance in Bangladesh’s industrial development strategy and economic partnership with China.