Currently, investors in the EZs and hi-tech parks qualify for a tax break for a decade starting from the first year of their operations. They are entitled to a full tax waiver in the first three years.

Investors in the economic zones and hi-tech parks in Bangladesh may see an end to the zero-duty benefit on imports of capital machinery, components and construction materials next fiscal year.

The central bank also directed banks to ensure mandatory clearance certificates from utility service providers before approving loans.

The government is going to undertake a major project to set up five jetties and necessary infrastructure in the economic zones in the country’s south-eastern part to ensure the comfortable and safe movement of people and landing facilities and boost tourism.

Factories outside economic zones and designated places would not get new gas and electricity connections, said State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid yesterday.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina says Bangladesh expatriates can come up with their investment in the country's 100 economic zones alongside foreign investors.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina formally inaugurates the development activities of 10 economic zones began today, aiming to boost both foreign and domestic investment in the country.

The government has set an ambitious target of setting up 100 economic zones in the next 15 years, says the finance minister in his budget speech today.