Chattogram Port has successfully reinstated the ‘zero waiting time’ benchmark, marking a key achievement in the country’s port management system.
This milestone ensures that vessels no longer face delays at the outer anchorage, effectively reducing turnaround times and boosting import-export operations.
In a press release signed by Port Secretary Syed Rafayet Hamim, it was highlighted that this restoration has enabled shipping companies to cut both time and costs.
As a result, importers are receiving goods more quickly, and exporters are able to ship products on schedule. This efficiency strengthens the reliability of the supply chain and is expected to reduce logistics costs, which could help stabilise market prices.
The release noted that after initially reaching this milestone in September of the previous year, the port successfully maintained zero waiting time throughout October, November, and December.
However, disruptions in January and February, caused by work stoppages and other challenges, temporarily halted operations. Despite these setbacks, full-scale operations resumed, restoring zero waiting time at the port.
During the recent Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, the port remained operational around the clock. While waiting times at the outer anchorage surged to 3–5 days ahead of Eid, intensive monitoring and coordination by the Port Authority helped reduce the waiting time back to zero shortly thereafter.
Since the beginning of Ramadan, the authority has been focused on maintaining zero waiting time, ensuring smooth supply chain operations across the nation. Adjusted worker duty rosters helped maintain continuity during the holiday period.
Officials expressed optimism that the current momentum will be sustained, further boosting the country’s import-export performance and solidifying the port’s pivotal role in global trade.
