The Jatiya Sangsad (JS) has passed the 'Invest Bangladesh Bill, 2026,' establishing the Invest Bangladesh Authority as the country's single investment promotion agency. The bill, introduced by Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, was approved by voice vote. It consolidates the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA), the Bangladesh Public Private Partnership Authority (PPP Authority), and the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) into one statutory body. The new authority aims to streamline investment processes, eliminate overlapping functions, and create a unified digital platform for investment approvals.
Consolidation of Existing Authorities
Minister Salahuddin Ahmed highlighted that the bill is not introducing a new concept but rather merging existing institutions with overlapping functions. He emphasized that the government aimed to create a genuine one-window system for investors by consolidating these authorities. The legislation also repeals previous acts related to BEZA, PPP Authority, and BIDA, transferring all assets, liabilities, contracts, and personnel to the new authority.
Functions and Structure of the New Authority
The Invest Bangladesh Authority will be responsible for attracting domestic and foreign investment, coordinating approvals across government agencies, approving investment incentives, and managing industrial zones and public-private partnership projects. It will also recommend visas and work permits for foreign investors, facilitate investment agreements, oversee industrial land allocation, and advise the government on strategic use or sale of unused state-owned industrial assets. The Prime Minister, or a nominee, will chair the governing board, with ministers from relevant sectors serving as members alongside senior officials and private sector representatives.
