Chattogram Port Expansion Aims to Boost Regional Trade-20260528082525-7913

Chattogram, Bangladesh – Authorities are pressing ahead with major expansion projects at Chattogram Port, Bangladesh’s busiest seaport, aiming to solidify its position as a key regional trade hub and accommodate growing cargo volumes. The initiatives, encompassing both land reclamation and infrastructure upgrades, are projected to significantly increase the port’s capacity over the next decade.

Currently, Chattogram Port handles approximately 92% of Bangladesh’s seaborne trade. However, increasing economic growth and rising demand for imports and exports are putting considerable strain on existing facilities. Congestion and delays have become increasingly common, impacting businesses and adding to logistical costs. The planned expansions are therefore considered crucial for sustaining economic momentum.

The most ambitious component of the expansion is the construction of a new multi-purpose terminal at the western bank of the Karnaphuli River. This project, financed with a combination of government funds and loans from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), will add an estimated 1.7 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) of container handling capacity. Preliminary work, including dredging and land preparation, is already underway, with completion targeted for 2027.

Beyond the new terminal, existing berths are also undergoing upgrades to accommodate larger vessels. The depth of the navigation channel is being increased to allow access for ships with greater draft, facilitating the transport of heavier cargo. Modernization efforts also include the implementation of advanced container handling equipment and digital technologies to streamline operations and improve efficiency.

“The expansion of Chattogram Port is not simply a matter of increasing capacity; it’s about enhancing Bangladesh’s competitiveness in the global marketplace,” stated Commodore Arifur Rahman, Chairman of the Chattogram Port Authority (CPA), during a recent press briefing. “By reducing congestion and improving turnaround times, we can lower costs for businesses and attract more investment.”

The port’s expansion is also expected to have a positive ripple effect on surrounding industries. The development of supporting infrastructure, such as roads, railways, and warehousing facilities, will create employment opportunities and stimulate economic activity in the Chattogram region. The CPA is actively collaborating with local businesses and government agencies to ensure that these ancillary developments are aligned with the port’s overall expansion plan.

However, the project has not been without its challenges. Land acquisition has proven to be a complex process, requiring negotiations with numerous landowners and resettlement programs for affected communities. Environmental concerns related to dredging and land reclamation have also been raised by environmental groups, prompting the CPA to implement mitigation measures to minimize ecological impact. These include the creation of artificial wetlands and the implementation of strict environmental monitoring protocols.

Looking ahead, the CPA is exploring further expansion options, including the development of a new port facility at Matarbari, located further down the coast. This deep-sea port, also under development, is intended to handle very large container ships and serve as a transshipment hub for regional trade. Combined, these initiatives represent a significant investment in Bangladesh’s maritime infrastructure and its ambition to become a major player in the global supply chain. The success of these projects will be pivotal for Bangladesh’s continued economic progress and its integration into the international trading system.