Khulna is the third-largest city in Bangladesh, following Dhaka and Chittagong. It serves as the administrative center for both the Khulna District and the Khulna Division, acting as the divisional headquarters for ten districts.
The city is a significant maritime hub, ranking as the second-largest port city in the country after Chittagong due to its proximity to the Port of Mongla. Additionally, it contains an internal river port known as the Port of Khulna. The local economy is primarily driven by marine activities, seaport operations, and local industries, making it the third-largest economy in Bangladesh.