Government Decides to Build Military Economic Zone in Mirsarai Instead of Indian Project

The government of Bangladesh has decided to set up a military economic zone in the Mirsarai area of Chattogram, replacing the previously planned Indian Government-to-Government (G2G) economic zone. The decision was announced by Ashik Chowdhury, the Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA), during a press briefing on January 26.

The new military economic zone will be developed on 850 acres of land in Mirsarai, a region originally designated for an Indian economic zone that was later cancelled. Ashik Chowdhury explained that the shift to a military economic zone was a result of discussions regarding the defense industry and the increasing demand for defense products in the global market.

The decision was made in consultation with the Armed Forces Division and the Ministry of Defense. The newly planned zone will focus on producing military equipment, including basic warfare items like ammunition and tank components. According to Ashik, having a local production capacity for such equipment will not only address national needs but also provide export opportunities in the future.

He further emphasized the importance of having domestic defense production capabilities, particularly given the global situation where basic supplies like ammunition often face shortages during wartime. The project is expected to enhance Bangladesh's defense industrial capacity, contributing to both national security and economic growth.

The government is working closely with international partners to ensure cooperation in establishing the zone, with many countries already expressing interest in collaborating on this defense initiative.
 

This new development in Mirsarai aligns with Bangladesh's long-term goals to boost its defense industry and establish a strategic position in global defense manufacturing.