Bangladesh eyes foreign operators for Chattogram port terminals
Speaking at the port, Harun confirmed work was underway to issue an international request for proposal. The move follows the Bangladesh Navy-run Chittagong Dry Dock Limited's takeover of NCT in July, which has since boosted container handling by 30 per cent and cut vessel turnaround time by 13 per cent.
Bangladesh plans to appoint foreign operators for three Chattogram Port terminals, including NCT, by December, Bida chief Ashik Mahmud said. The move follows a Navy-led boost in efficiency. Talks with DP World are ongoing. Mahmud sees potential to handle 1.9 million TEUs, urges global standards, and unveiled digital initiatives, with plans to quintuple port capacity by 2030.
Despite political opposition citing national interests, the government argued that engaging renowned global port operators will improve efficiency and strengthen Bangladesh's position in global trade. Talks are ongoing with UAE-based DP World for NCT operations, as per Bangladeshi media reports.
Mahmud stressed that Chattogram Port's performance is critical to Bangladesh's goal of becoming a global manufacturing hub, warning that inefficiency could hinder industrial projects. He noted that handling up to 1.9 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) through Chattogram Port is feasible.
'Last year, our highest record was 1.3 million TEUs (annual container handling). With technology, best practices, and global standards, this number can rise further,' said media reports, citing Harun.
He also acknowledged challenges with the Saudi firm Red Sea Gateway Terminal, the current operator of Patenga Container Terminal, citing technical issues and the government's limited experience with international operators.
The BIDA chairman also launched several digital initiatives at the port, including a Shipping and Logistics Online Desk and a Vehicle and Container Digital Data Exchange System. The government plans to expand port capacity up to fivefold by 2030.
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