Bangladesh government plans to convert defunct jute, sugar, and textile mills into economic zones (EZs) to better utilize idle land and infrastructure and attract industrial investment. Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) discussed this strategy, initially targeting three facilities: Karim Jute Mills Ltd in Dhaka, Kushtia Sugar Mills Ltd, and Mohini Textile Mills Ltd in Kushtia.
This move is part of a broader initiative to repurpose other non-operational state-run factories, many of which were closed due to financial losses and labor unrest. BEZA officials highlighted that many of these sites have existing utilities and infrastructure, making them attractive to investors. Three transformed zones can be in replace of the following three defunct mills,
· Karim Jute Mills (49.62 acres in Dhaka) has river access, infrastructure, and proximity to major transport links.
· Kushtia Sugar Mills (221.46 acres) has extensive facilities and strong road connectivity but was closed in 2020.
· Mohini Textile Mills (99 bighas) in Kushtia has existing social infrastructure and utility support.
Past closures, such as the 2020 shutdown of BJMC jute mills and BSFIC sugar mills, were driven by financial losses and outdated operations. Some closed textile mills have already been leased to private entities. Officials emphasize that revitalizing these areas can boost industrial growth and economic activity by attracting new investments.
Comment here