Massive Chinese Investment to Turn Chittagong into Industrial Hub

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said that large-scale Chinese investment in Chittagong will play a key role in transforming Bangladesh’s population into a productive workforce and accelerating economic growth.

Addressing a massive public gathering at Baharchhara sea beach in Banshkhali on Saturday, the PM said the government has allocated a significant area in Chittagong for Chinese investors to establish hundreds of industries. He said the initiative is expected to generate extensive employment opportunities and increase foreign exchange earnings, contributing to the country’s long-term development.

Highlighting the economic prospects of the coastal belt stretching from Mirsarai to Maheshkhali, the PM said Bangladesh’s maritime resources and strategic location have created immense opportunities for industrialisation and foreign investment. He stressed that maintaining peace and stability is essential for attracting investment and ensuring job creation.

The PM said the government’s goal is to transform the country’s nearly 200 million people into a skilled and productive workforce through industrial expansion, investment, and employment-oriented policies. He urged citizens to remain vigilant against any attempts to create instability that could undermine economic progress.

Earlier in the day, PM Tarique visited the Matarbari Deep Sea Port and several major projects under the Maheshkhali Integrated Development Authority. Accompanied by cabinet members, he reviewed the progress of the deep-sea port, which is being developed following the model of Japan’s Kashima Port, and underscored the importance of environmentally sustainable industrial development in the region.

The PM’s visit also included welfare initiatives in Chittagong. At the Banshkhali rally, he handed over house keys and assistance to 100 flood-affected families. He said the government’s Family Card programme, set to begin nationwide distribution on August 16, will benefit around 4.1 million families across the country this year, including thousands in Banshkhali. He also highlighted the Farmer Card programme and measures taken to ensure fair prices for salt producers.

During his tour, PM Tarique met religious leaders in Fatikchhari and Hathazari and participated in assistance programmes for flood-affected and disabled families.

Concluding the visit at an organisational meeting with BNP leaders at Radisson Blu Chittagong Bay View, the Prime Minister reiterated that industrialisation, foreign investment, and employment generation remain central to the government’s development strategy, with Chittagong expected to serve as a major hub for future Chinese-led industrial expansion.