A Malaysian investor delegation has expressed interest in investing in the Debiganj Economic Zone in Panchagarh, Bangladesh. The group is initially assessing the feasibility of a 100-megawatt solar power project and has also indicated interest in establishing agriculture-based industries. On Friday afternoon, the delegation met State Minister for Water Resources Farhad Hossain Azad before visiting the economic zone to review infrastructure, industrialisation prospects and employment potential.

Azad said the government places special importance on development in the northern region and is showing the Debiganj Economic Zone to domestic and foreign investors for that purpose. Delegation head Mr Sim described the zone as highly promising for industrial investment. He said the proposed solar project, if implemented, would add renewable energy to the national grid, while agro-based industrial development also has considerable scope.

Officials cited improved road connectivity, easy availability of agricultural products and comparatively lower production costs as factors attracting investors. An agreement to establish the economic zone was signed on 24 August 2020. The planned area was revised to 250.85 acres, including 240 acres for the zone and 10.85 acres for a connecting road. BEZA has received settlement of 185.86 acres, while acquisition of the remaining land continues.