The Cumilla Export Processing Zone (EPZ) has set a record in exports as it marks its 25th year of establishment. In the 2024–25 fiscal year, goods worth USD 902 million were exported from the zone to various countries around the world. Authorities at the Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA) see even greater potential for expansion and investment if more industrial plots become available.
According to BEPZA, new investors have expressed strong interest in setting up factories at the Cumilla EPZ, but due to a lack of vacant plots, no new allocations can be made at present. Officials say that if new plots are allotted, both investment and export earnings will see further growth.
Established in 2000 with the aim of accelerating industrialization, promoting investment, creating employment, and boosting export earnings, the Cumilla EPZ spans 267 acres and comprises 243 industrial plots.
BEPZA’s Executive Director in Cumilla, Abdullah Al Mahbub, stated that the EPZ has achieved a record in exports during its 25th anniversary year. Products worth USD 902 million were exported globally, and the zone currently employs about 50,000 workers across 46 companies, significantly contributing to the local economy. However, as all plots are occupied, there is currently no space for new factories despite interest from foreign investors.
At dawn, the EPZ becomes a hub of activity as thousands of workers stream in to start their shifts. The hum of machinery tells stories of industry and export growth, as Cumilla EPZ continues to break its own records year after year.
A five-year review of investments and exports shows consistent progress. In the 2020–21 fiscal year, investment totaled USD 61.02 million with exports of USD 565.85 million. In 2021–22, investment reached USD 67.46 million and exports USD 814.82 million. The 2022–23 fiscal year saw investments of USD 50.23 million and exports worth USD 790.94 million. In 2023–24, investment stood at USD 24.49 million, with exports at USD 711.37 million. Finally, in 2024–25, investment reached USD 25.54 million, while exports surged to USD 901.22 million.
These figures reflect steady year-on-year growth in both foreign exchange earnings and investor confidence through the Cumilla EPZ. After overcoming challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war, the zone has regained momentum with rising orders and export volumes.
Currently, around 66 percent of the 50,000 workers are women. Every month, approximately Tk 250 crore is paid in wages and benefits, boosting the local economy and reducing unemployment in surrounding areas.
Sabina Akhter, a senior operator at Shruti Textile from Debidwar, said she has been working in the EPZ for five years. “My salary helps me support my family and educate my children,” she said.
Memong Marma from Lakshmichhari, Khagrachhari, works at Brandix Textile along with his wife. “Both of us work here and send money to our parents back in the village. We are living comfortably,” he shared.
According to BEPZA, factories in Cumilla EPZ export products such as ready-made garments, footwear, electronics, plastics, and fashion accessories to markets in the United States, Japan, and several European countries. Investors from at least 15 countries are involved, with total investments amounting to USD 613 million. Currently, 46 industries are in operation, while six more are under implementation.
Officials said all industrial plots have been allocated, leaving no space for new establishments. However, several existing companies are expanding their facilities within their allotted areas, which is expected to increase employment and exports.
Investors said government and BEPZA support have helped boost exports in the post-pandemic period. They added that the proposed Cumilla airport, once operational, would further attract foreign buyers by easing travel and logistics.
Executive Director Abdullah Al Mahbub noted that while there are no vacant plots left for new industries, existing companies are expanding operations, which will lead to higher exports and employment in the coming years.
Located near the Dhaka–Chattogram Highway, the Cumilla EPZ continues to stand as a strong pillar of the national economy. Officials believe that if the zone is expanded with new plots, it will unlock greater opportunities for foreign investment, employment, and export growth.
