The Chattogram Port Authority has decided to increase tariffs by 30% on import and export operations. This is the first time since 1986 that such an increase is being made. The decision was taken after discussions with various ministries and stakeholders, said Brigadier General (Retd.) M Sakhawat Hossain, the adviser to the interim government on shipping affairs.
Plan to Appoint International Operators
Speaking to the press after visiting the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) on Friday (July 25), the shipping adviser said the goal is to raise the port’s capacity to international standards. To achieve this, the government plans to appoint foreign operators to manage the terminal more efficiently.
“There is no reason to spread propaganda. Even though international operators will be appointed, the overall control of the port will remain with the government,” said the adviser.
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Revenue Will Grow, But Costs May Rise
The adviser acknowledged that although government revenue will increase, the cost of trade will also go up for businesspeople involved in import and export.
Improvement in Container Handling After Navy Involvement
Rear Admiral Mir Ershad Ali, Commander of the Chattogram Naval Region, reported that since July 7, the port’s operations have significantly improved. The Bangladesh Navy took over management of the terminal through Chattogram Dry Dock Ltd., and the results have been positive:
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Daily average container handling increased to 3,250 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units), which is a 12.10% rise from the previous month.
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30 ships were successfully handled in just 17 days.
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Operational time was reduced by 10 hours.
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Four ships can now load and unload containers simultaneously at jetties 2, 3, 4, and 5.
New Operator Making a Positive Impact
Since Chattogram Dry Dock Ltd. took charge of the NCT on July 7, container handling has increased by almost 13%, according to port authorities. The modern terminal, equipped with superstructures and run under naval supervision, is now seeing noticeable progress.
Impact on National Economy
Many traders and port users believe that the efficiency brought in by the new operator will not only streamline import and export activities but also have a positive impact on the national economy.
Source: Dhaka Tribune
