Chattogram Port Faces New Challenges Amid Rising Regional Trade Flows

Chattogram, Bangladesh — The Chattogram Port, the country’s largest maritime gateway, is navigating a complex mix of operational strain and infrastructure demands as regional trade volumes continue to rise. In recent months, delays in cargo handling and increased congestion have drawn attention from both domestic policymakers and international shipping stakeholders.

According to the Chattogram Port Authority, container throughput reached a record 3.2 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) in the fiscal year 2023–2024, marking a 12% increase from the previous year. The surge is attributed to growing exports from Bangladesh’s ready-made garments sector, rising imports of raw materials, and expanded trade links with Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

However, the rapid growth has exposed long-standing bottlenecks. The port’s current infrastructure, designed for a capacity of around 2.5 million TEUs annually, is operating beyond its limits. Long queues of trucks waiting to offload goods at the terminal, delays in customs clearance, and a shortage of specialized equipment have become common occurrences, particularly during peak seasons.

"We are seeing a significant strain on our systems," said Md. Shahriar Hossain, Director of Operations at the Chattogram Port Authority. "While we welcome increased trade, we need urgent upgrades to our facilities, better coordination with customs, and expanded digital systems to manage the flow efficiently."

The government has announced a series of initiatives to address the challenges. A new deep-sea container terminal is under development at the nearby Matarbari port, expected to relieve pressure on Chattogram by 2027. Additionally, a $150 million project to modernize the existing port’s IT infrastructure is underway, with support from the Asian Development Bank. The project includes automated gate systems, real-time cargo tracking, and enhanced data integration with customs and logistics providers.

International observers have noted the strategic importance of Chattogram’s role in regional supply chains. As Bangladesh seeks to diversify its export markets beyond traditional destinations like the United States and the European Union, the port’s efficiency is critical. Analysts point to rising competition from neighboring ports such as Chittagong’s regional counterparts in Myanmar and India’s Visakhapatnam, which are investing heavily in infrastructure.

"Chattogram remains a vital node in the Bay of Bengal trade corridor," said Dr. Ayesha Rahman, a regional trade expert at Dhaka University. "But without timely investment and institutional reforms, the port risks losing its competitive edge as regional players accelerate their modernization efforts."

Local businesses have voiced concern. "Delays mean higher costs and missed delivery windows," said Farid Ahmed, a logistics manager for a textile exporter. "We’re already paying extra for expedited shipping, but even that isn’t always reliable."

Meanwhile, environmental and safety concerns have emerged. The port’s proximity to residential areas and the Karnaphuli River has raised questions about pollution from diesel-powered equipment and the risk of accidents during heavy operations. The port authority has pledged to adopt cleaner technologies and improve safety protocols, including regular emergency drills and monitoring of air and water quality.

As Chattogram prepares for continued growth, stakeholders agree that a balanced approach—combining infrastructure investment, digital transformation, and sustainable practices—will be essential. The success of the port will not only impact Bangladesh’s economy but also influence the broader dynamics of trade in South Asia.

With the new terminal at Matarbari nearing completion and digital upgrades rolling out, the coming years will be a critical test of the country’s ability to manage rapid economic expansion while maintaining operational excellence at one of its most vital gateways.