Invest Bangladesh has reported a potential investment pipeline of $1.3 billion for Bangladesh, with over $400 million reaching the decision or implementation stage.
The agency disclosed these progress updates following the conclusion of its 180-day investment plan.
In a press release issued on Tuesday (September 22), Invest Bangladesh stated that under the 180-day plan announced on March 16 this year, 16 workstreams were established across three pillars. Progress was highlighted for 20 initiatives falling under 14 of these workstreams.
According to Invest Bangladesh data, potential investment sources include $600 million from China, $300 million from the Middle East, $200 million from the United States, and $100 million from South Korea.
By sector, renewable energy and information technology account for $300 million each in prospective investments at various stages, while healthcare and textiles account for $200 million each.
Ashik Chowdhury, chairman of Invest Bangladesh, noted that the 180-day plan was executed to align with the government’s goals of driven economic growth, job creation, and domestic capability building.
To enhance the investment climate, priority was given to improved infrastructure, swift and efficient services, and a robust pipeline of investable opportunities.
He added that while several changes have already taken effect, larger projects will require more time to materialize. In line with the commitment to report progress after 180 days, the update outlines both achievements and ongoing tasks.
The release highlighted infrastructure progress under the plan, including the foundation stone laying for the Laldia Container Terminal in Chittagong.
The $550 million project is targeted for completion by 2030. Once operational, the terminal is expected to generate over 700 direct jobs and boost port capacity by 44%.
Additionally, round-the-clock port operations, customs clearance, and banking services have been operationalized at Chittagong Port. Operations at Dhaka’s Third Terminal are scheduled to commence by late 2026.
Invest Bangladesh stated that its planned cargo facility will expand annual cargo handling capacity from 200,000 tonnes to 500,000 tonnes. Work is underway to finalize the policy framework for a proposed Free Trade Zone spanning over 600 acres in Chittagong. Preparations have also advanced for the first PPP solar power plant on 412 acres in Sonagazi, Feni, within the National Special Economic Zone.
Furthermore, a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (Cepa) has been concluded between Bangladesh and South Korea. Under the agreement, 97% of Bangladeshi goods will gain preferential market access, including duty-free access for 8,428 products, according to Invest Bangladesh.
Guidelines providing a 1.25% incentive to attract foreign investment have also been approved. Eligible individuals who facilitate bringing foreign equity into Bangladesh will receive this incentive based on the equity brought in.
A dedicated portal has been prepared, with an implementation target of October 15, 2026.
A three-day Business Starter Package on BanglaBiz has been launched, alongside ongoing work to develop a 14-day Business Readiness Package and integrate priority services across government agencies.
Under the plan, Hotel Shaibal has been selected as the first pilot PPP project for private investment in state-owned tourism facilities.
A transaction adviser for the 132-acre project has been appointed, and a feasibility study is underway. If successful, more than 50 tourism properties could join the PPP pipeline.
Permission for deep-sea fishing for up to three months has also been granted, with investors executing plans to procure over seven deep-sea vessels. A pre-feasibility study for an aquaculture zone under the Maheshkhali Integrated Development Authority has also commenced.
Invest Bangladesh is currently conducting the country’s first integrated investment mapping exercise in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Sanem.
Covering eight divisions and major sectors, this initiative aims to identify regional investment opportunities, bottlenecks, and required supporting infrastructure.
