Chattogram Port Sees Record Container Throughput Amid Regional Trade Surge
Chattogram, Bangladesh — The Chattogram Port Authority reported a record-breaking container throughput for the fiscal year 2024-2025, handling over 3.2 million twenty-foot equivalent units, marking a 12% increase from the previous year. This milestone underscores the port's critical role in Bangladesh's economy and its
Chattogram, Bangladesh — The Chattogram Port Authority reported a record-breaking container throughput for the fiscal year 2024-2025, handling over 3.2 million twenty-foot equivalent units, marking a 12% increase from the previous year. This milestone underscores the port's critical role in Bangladesh's economy and its growing importance as a regional transshipment hub.
Officials attributed the surge to improved infrastructure, including the completion of new container yards and the installation of advanced cargo-handling equipment. The port now operates 24 hours a day, reducing turnaround times for vessels. "This achievement reflects the dedication of our workforce and the government's ongoing investment in port modernization," said Rear Admiral Mohammad Sohail, chairman of the Chattogram Port Authority, in a statement.
The increase in throughput is largely driven by Bangladesh's booming ready-made garment sector, which accounts for over 80% of the country's exports. Global retailers such as H&M and Walmart rely on Chattogram for timely shipments. However, the port also handled record volumes of imported raw materials, including cotton and machinery, supporting domestic manufacturing.
Despite the success, challenges persist. Congestion on access roads and delays in customs clearance remain pain points for logistics companies. Local truck drivers staged a weeklong protest in June over poor road conditions and high tolls, temporarily slowing cargo movement. The government has pledged to expand highways and digitize customs procedures by early 2026 to address these issues.
On the international front, Chattogram's growth aligns with broader trends in South Asian trade. The port has seen increased traffic from transshipment cargo destined for Nepal, Bhutan, and northeastern India, leveraging bilateral agreements that allow landlocked countries to use Bangladesh's ports. This has positioned Chattogram as a competitor to Colombo and Singapore for regional transshipment, though experts caution that further investments in deep-sea berths are needed to accommodate larger vessels.
Environmental concerns also surfaced as the port expands. Local environmental groups have raised alarms about pollution from shipbreaking yards and dredging activities affecting nearby mangrove forests. The port authority has responded by commissioning a study to assess ecological impact and plans to implement green port initiatives, including shore-to-ship power supply to reduce emissions.
Economic analysts view the record throughput as a positive sign for Bangladesh's GDP growth, which is projected at 6.8% for the current fiscal year. "Chattogram is the lifeline of Bangladesh's trade, and this performance boosts investor confidence," said Dr. Shamsul Alam, a Dhaka-based economist. However, he warned that global economic uncertainties, including rising shipping costs and geopolitical tensions, could temper future gains.
Looking ahead, the port authority aims to increase capacity to 5 million TEUs by 2030 through the ongoing Bay Terminal project, which will add deep-water berths. The project, backed by Japanese and Chinese investment, is expected to be operational by 2028, further cementing Chattogram's status as a key node in global supply chains.