Nayeem Ahmed, Special Correspondent, Chattogram —
Bangladesh is seriously considering appointing an international operator to manage key functions at Chattogram Port, aiming to enhance its global competitiveness. The move comes amid a noticeable performance boost under temporary management by Chattogram Dry Dock Limited (CDDL), a Bangladesh Navy-backed company.
Speaking to reporters at the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) on Friday morning, Maritime Adviser M Sakhawat Hossain emphasized the necessity of international expertise. “We are currently operating our ports competently, but to reach the next level of efficiency, we must enter the international arena,” he said. “Hiring a global operator is a crucial step in that process.”
Interim Shift and Performance Boost
Following the departure of previous operator Saif Powertec Ltd, which managed the terminal for over 17 years, the government temporarily assigned CDDL to oversee NCT operations starting July 7.
CDDL’s management has already yielded positive results. According to Rear Admiral Mir Ershad Ali, Commander of Chattogram Naval Area, ship berth time has decreased by an average of 10 hours, and container throughput has increased by 30% within just 17 days.
Maritime officials, including Port Authority Chairman Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman, were present during the inspection.
What’s Next: DP World on the Horizon
The government is currently negotiating with Dubai-based DP World, a global port logistics giant, for longer-term management of the terminal. Until those discussions conclude, CDDL will continue operating NCT.
“This isn’t about replacing one company with another,” said the maritime adviser. “Our goal is to improve efficiency. I’ve personally visited ports around the world. There’s no personal agenda here—I’m not even from Chattogram.”
Hossain also defended the transition from Saif Powertec. “They performed well for years. But now, we need more advanced management to meet future trade demands,” he said.
Defending National Interests
In response to criticism suggesting that foreign partnerships may compromise national interests, Hossain reassured stakeholders:
“Chattogram Port is a national asset. It will always remain under Bangladesh’s control. I urge those spreading misinformation to reconsider in the interest of the country.”
On the issue of port tariff increases, the adviser clarified that the decision was made after inter-ministerial consultation and discussions with stakeholders. “Even after the revision, Chattogram’s fees remain lower than many top global ports,” he asserted.
Vision for the Future
The adviser concluded by reaffirming the government’s vision to integrate Bangladesh more deeply into the global logistics network. “We don’t want to stay isolated. We want to move forward and become a part of the international stage.”
Concerns Over Foreign Operator at Chattogram Port
The idea of appointing a foreign operator to manage terminals at Chattogram Port, Bangladesh’s principal seaport, has stirred significant public debate for years. Critics often raise concerns about sovereignty, national security, and economic control—fearing that foreign involvement in strategic infrastructure could compromise the country’s long-term interests.
Much of this skepticism stems from past regional examples, where foreign port operators, particularly state-backed firms from the UAE, China, or Singapore, have acquired long-term concessions or exclusive control over major port facilities in developing countries. Detractors worry that such arrangements may lead to monopoly pricing, restricted access, or geopolitical leverage, especially if transparency and accountability are lacking in contract negotiations.
In Bangladesh, such concerns intensified after the government began discussions with Dubai-based logistics giant DP World to manage Chattogram’s New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT). Labor unions, nationalist groups, and sections of the shipping community have expressed fears that a foreign operator may prioritize profits over public service, marginalize local companies, or weaken government oversight.
However, supporters of the move argue that global operators bring advanced technology, faster turnaround times, and greater efficiency, which are essential for Bangladesh to compete in the global supply chain and reduce port congestion.
Balancing efficiency and national interest remains a central tension in this debate, especially as Chattogram Port handles over 90% of the country’s containerized trade and is critical to Bangladesh’s export-driven economy.
