China has expressed interest in establishing a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Mongla to expand trade relations and increase investment flows, according to the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (Bida).

Additionally, $1 billion in development funding from the New Development Bank (NDB), a multilateral development bank established by the BRICS states, is under discussion for 2025.

Ashik Chowdhury, executive chairman of the Bida, unveiled the plans while speaking during a press briefing on the second day of the Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025 at the Intercontinental Dhaka yesterday.

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Chowdhury pointed to Mongla's location near the seaport, referring to it as a gateway for maritime and export-linked industries.

In one of the sessions, a Chinese construction firm with operations in Bangladesh indicated its intent to expand. Company representatives discussed their experience in Bangladesh over the last 45 years and highlighted the availability of labour.

Chowdhury said the company had received support from different levels of government.  At the same time, he acknowledged challenges.

He cited the example of a businessman who has been waiting for more than three years for a licence to begin a project that intends to employ 10,000 people.

"He has funding and preparation, but progress remains halted due to administrative processes," Chowdhury said.

He added that similar cases have been seen over the years. "Many investors have been unable to proceed. These delays have affected the investment process. Administrative reforms are required."

The summit included sessions on planning, foreign participation, and sector-specific issues, and also saw Bangladesh sign agreements with 53 countries.

Additionally, Bida has opened a digital platform to collect feedback from private businesses.

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Chowdhury also commented on public reaction to misinformation, saying, "One tweet resulted in a 20-point drop in the index. Bangladesh Bank has since issued a clarification."

He added that coordination among ministries is being reviewed to ensure work is completed within assigned timelines.

Regarding regional development, Chowdhury said the focus is not limited to Chattogram, where China has plans to build a special economic zone in Anwara. "China has projects there, but other locations such as Saidpur are also under consideration. SEZ locations are being selected based on defined criteria."

On the matter of international credit ratings, Chowdhury said that Bangladesh is often grouped with other South Asian countries, which may not reflect its current financial arrangements. "A number of Bangladesh's loans are concessional. We are working based on structural planning."

He also raised concerns about the land-use policy and delays in enforcement. "Legal frameworks such as the Jail Establishment Act remain unimplemented. Repeated discussions without action slow down progress."

In response to energy concerns, Chowdhury called for the government to publicly release plans. "Gas shortages may occur in three to five years. A clear strategy should be made available."