Photo : BSS

COX’S BAZAR, Feb 2, 2026 (BSS)- Former Member of Parliament and Jamaat-e-Islami leader A. H. M. Hamidur Rahman Azad today said Maheshkhali and Kutubdia are poised to become one of the most important economic hubs of Bangladesh if the government’s long-term master plan is implemented.

Addressing an election rally in support of his “Dari Palla” symbol at Maheshkhali, Azad said, “the region would host the country’s only deep-sea port at Matarbari, along with an economic zone, large-scale industrialisation, power, energy and gas projects, and a centre for the blue economy.”

“Successful implementation of the master plan would not only transform Maheshkhali and Kutubdia but also significantly strengthen the national economy,” adding that it could contribute billions of dollars annually to Bangladesh’s GDP, he said. 

Azad said the entire southern Chattogram region would emerge as a future commercial hub of the country when it is implemented.

Referring to local livelihoods, he said, Maheshkhali people are still struggling despite the area’s vast potential. 
“Salt production remains the main source of income for the local people, noting that 95 percent of Bangladesh’s salt is produced in Cox’s Bazar district specifically in the Maheshkhali area.”

He said salt farmers are now receiving fair prices due to continued movements, and demanded that salt be developed as an export-oriented product.

Azad  also called for Geographical Indication (GI) certification for Maheshkhali’s famous sweet betel leaf, saying this would ensure fair prices and improve farmers’ incomes.