Written by The Banking Post
The government is preparing a major push to expand agro-based industries in northern Bangladesh, aiming to create jobs and unlock the region’s economic potential.
The initiative was outlined by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman during a series of meetings with leading entrepreneurs from the fruit, dairy, food, beverage and poultry sectors at his office on Monday.
Business leaders said the discussions centred on turning North Bengal into an agro-processing hub by leveraging local resources, improving infrastructure and attracting fresh investment.
Participants included top executives from major groups such as PRAN-RFL Group, Transcom Limited, Square Group, BRAC Enterprises and Akij Group, among others.
According to officials, the region is being viewed as a strategic economic zone, with agro-industrialisation at the core of the plan to boost productivity and employment.
The government is also looking to improve investment conditions through policy support and infrastructure upgrades to attract both local and foreign investors.
Another key focus is the underutilisation of land held by state-owned enterprises. Officials said large tracts of idle land could be repurposed for new industries to accelerate job creation.
At a separate pre-budget discussion, Industries and Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir noted that several sugar mills own vast land holdings, which could be better utilised through greater private sector participation.
Business leaders described the meetings as constructive, with the prime minister reaffirming the government’s commitment to expanding agro-based industries in the north.
They said assurances were given on improving investment-friendly policies, though concerns were raised about the ongoing energy crisis and the broader business climate.
Ahsan Khan Chowdhury said discussions covered agriculture, industry and overall economic development, with special emphasis on increasing agricultural output and expanding agro-processing in underserved regions.
The government expects the initiative to accelerate industrialisation in North Bengal, creating jobs and supporting broader economic growth.
