Bangladesh Eyes Foreign Operators to Boost Chattogram Port Efficiency
In a bold step toward modernizing its maritime infrastructure, Bangladesh is preparing to appoint foreign operators for three key terminals at Chattogram Port—New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT), Laldia Container Terminal, and one facility at the Bay Terminal—by December 2025. The initiative, led by the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), aims to enhance operational efficiency, reduce vessel turnaround times, and position the country as a global manufacturing and logistics hub.
Why Foreign Operators?
BIDA Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun emphasized that Chattogram Port’s performance is pivotal to Bangladesh’s industrial ambitions. With the port currently handling up to 1.3 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) annually, Harun believes this could rise to 1.9 million TEUs with the adoption of global best practices and advanced technology.
The recent takeover of NCT by the Bangladesh Navy-run Chittagong Dry Dock Limited (CDDL) has already yielded promising results:
- 30% increase in container handling
- 13% reduction in vessel turnaround time
These improvements have bolstered confidence in the port’s potential, prompting the government to seek world-class operators to replicate and scale such gains across other terminals.
Global Partnerships in Play
The government is currently in talks with UAE-based DP World to operate NCT, while Saudi firm Red Sea Gateway Terminal (RSGT) already manages the Patenga Container Terminal. However, RSGT’s performance has been mixed, with technical challenges and limited experience on Bangladesh’s side hampering outcomes.
Despite these hurdles, officials remain optimistic. Harun noted, “We ourselves don’t know how good the best possible operation can be. We have not yet determined the maximum possible volume this port can handle”.
Digital Transformation and Infrastructure Expansion
To complement operational upgrades, BIDA has launched several digital initiatives:
- Shipping and Logistics Online Desk
- Vehicle and Container Digital Data Exchange System
These platforms aim to streamline cargo movement, reduce corruption, and improve transparency. Additionally, the government plans to expand port capacity fivefold by 2030, with major upgrades at Laldia and Bay Terminal including:
- New jetties
- Enhanced waterways
- Modern container handling equipment
- Advanced security systems
Political Pushback and Sovereignty Concerns
The move to engage foreign operators has sparked political opposition, with critics citing national interest and sovereignty risks. Some argue that handing over control of strategic assets like Chattogram Port could compromise Bangladesh’s autonomy and expose sensitive data to foreign entities.
However, the government maintains that renowned global operators will bring efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness. The temporary success of CDDL at NCT is being used as a benchmark to justify further reforms.
Strategic Implications
Chattogram Port is Bangladesh’s maritime lifeline, handling over 90% of its container traffic. Enhancing its efficiency is crucial not only for trade but also for attracting foreign investment, supporting industrial zones, and integrating into global supply chains.
If successful, the initiative could:
- Reduce logistics costs
- Improve export competitiveness
- Attract multinational manufacturers
- Strengthen Bangladesh’s position in the Indo-Pacific trade corridor
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