Chattogram Port Sets New Record with Highest Monthly Cargo Handling

Chattogram, Bangladesh – In a significant boost for Bangladesh's trade infrastructure, the Chattogram Port Authority has announced that the port handled a record 1.2 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of cargo in March 2025, surpassing its previous high set in December 2024. This milestone underscores the port's growing capacity and its critical role as the nation's primary maritime gateway, handling approximately 90% of Bangladesh's international trade.

The record was achieved amid ongoing efforts to modernize operations and reduce congestion, which has historically plagued the port. Officials attributed the success to expanded container yards, the introduction of new gantry cranes, and improved coordination with customs authorities. “This achievement reflects the hard work of our staff and the effectiveness of recent infrastructure upgrades,” said Rear Admiral Mohammad Sohail, chairman of the Chattogram Port Authority, in a statement. “We are committed to maintaining this momentum to support Bangladesh's export-led growth.”

The surge in cargo volume was driven by a robust increase in exports of ready-made garments, which account for the bulk of Bangladesh's overseas shipments, as well as a rise in imports of raw materials and machinery. Global demand for Bangladeshi products, particularly from European and North American markets, remained strong despite geopolitical uncertainties. However, port officials cautioned that the record also highlights the need for further investment to keep pace with growing trade volumes. “While this is a positive development, we cannot rest on our laurels,” Sohail added. “We must continue to expand capacity and adopt digital solutions to ensure efficiency.”

Local businesses welcomed the news, with many noting that smoother port operations have reduced shipping delays and costs. “This is a game-changer for our supply chain,” said Faruk Ahmed, a garment exporter based in Chattogram. “Faster turnaround times mean we can meet buyer deadlines more reliably, which strengthens our competitiveness globally.” The record also comes as the government pushes to diversify exports beyond garments, with sectors like leather goods, jute products, and electronics showing growth.

Internationally, the Chattogram Port's performance is being watched as a barometer for regional trade dynamics in South Asia. Analysts point out that the port's improvements could attract more transshipment cargo, challenging established hubs like Colombo and Singapore. The port has already started handling more containers destined for India's northeastern states and Nepal, leveraging its location near the Bay of Bengal. “Chattogram is positioning itself as a key logistics node for the entire region,” said Dr. Sharmeen Rahman, a trade economist at the University of Dhaka. “This record is a clear signal of its potential.”

Despite the positive trends, challenges remain. The port still faces occasional congestion due to limited road and rail connectivity to the hinterland, and some shipping lines have complained about bureaucratic delays. Environmental concerns have also been raised, with activists calling for stricter pollution controls as cargo volumes increase. The port authority has acknowledged these issues and plans to invest in green technologies, including electric equipment and waste management systems, as part of a long-term sustainability strategy.

Looking ahead, the Chattogram Port Authority aims to increase annual capacity to 5 million TEUs by 2030 through further expansion of terminals and automation. The government has also approved a master plan to develop a deep-sea port at Matarbari, which is expected to complement Chattogram's operations. For now, the record month provides a welcome boost to Bangladesh's economic outlook, reinforcing the port's reputation as a vital engine of growth.