Kiam Glassware Industries Ltd, a sister concern of BRB Group, will invest Tk1,200 crore to establish a state-of-the-art glassware manufacturing facility at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Shilpa Nagar. The first unit is set to begin production in February 2025. Half of the construction for the initial phase, spanning 20 acres, is already complete. This investment will enable the facility to produce various glassware items, including plates, glasses, jugs, cups, and bowls, creating jobs for approximately 2,500-3,000 people.

“We hope to start producing high-quality glassware products by February next year,” said Md Mizber Rahman, managing director of Kiam Glassware.

The project will proceed in two phases. The first phase, with an investment of Tk500-600 crore, will focus on building a soda-lime glass manufacturing plant capable of producing 70 tonnes of glassware daily. The second phase will add a packaging industry on an additional 10 acres and a new unit that can produce 50 tonnes of opal glass per day. The company aims to complete this phase within the next year, depending on product demand.

“We aim to export glassware products in addition to selling them domestically,” Rahman stated, adding that “approximately 70% of the machinery required for glassware production has already been imported.” The total project investment is expected to be between Tk1,000 and Tk1,200 crore.

Kiam Glassware plans to bring in professional trainers from abroad to train local workers for five to six months. The company is also discussing accommodation arrangements with the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (Beza) since the factory will operate 24 hours a day in three shifts. “We will also request the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (Beza) to provide accommodation facilities for the workers,” Rahman noted.

Shaikh Yusuf Harun, former executive chairman of Beza, acknowledged the housing needs, stating, “Beza aims to have planned housing on the other side of the Feni River, outside the economic zone.” He added that “work will begin once land is obtained. For now, workers can rent houses in the nearby village. The communication system is good, with tempos and buses available for transportation.”

Kiam Glassware’s investment will likely spur economic growth and job creation in the region. The new facility will not only meet domestic demand but also expand Bangladesh’s presence in global markets. The company’s focus on importing advanced machinery and hiring international trainers underscores its commitment to high production standards.

This project is part of the broader development of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Shilpa Nagar, the largest industrial city in Bangladesh. Spread over 30,000 acres across Mirsarai and Sitakunda upazilas of Chattogram and Sonagazi upazila of Feni, the industrial city already has 11 establishments in production. As more companies like Kiam Glassware invest in this area, Bangladesh’s role as a manufacturing hub will strengthen, driving significant economic growth and increasing global recognition.

Source: The Business Standard