Brigadier General (Retd) M Shakhawat Hossain, Advisor to the Ministry of Shipping, has said that development of Chattogram Port requires a combination of technology, skilled manpower, and investment. He noted that there is potential to attract $4-5 billion in investment around the port in the coming years.
“In many developed countries, ports are operated by private operators. Why should we lag behind?” he said, adding that the government is committed to ensuring port operations in a way that does not compromise national interests.
He made the remarks while inaugurating the newly developed Laldia Char Container Yard in Patenga on Monday (November 10). On the same day, the Ministry of Shipping also launched the Transport Terminal and Taltola Container Yard near the Bay Terminal area, and inspected the XY Shed and the Customs Auction Shed. Shipping Secretary Dr. Nurunnahar Chowdhury, Chattogram Port Authority Chairman Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman, and other senior officials were present.
Commenting on the recent tariff adjustment at Chattogram Port, the advisor stressed that the decision was taken after multiple rounds of consultation with port stakeholders, including traders and workers.
“Port tariffs had been unchanged since 1984. After four decades, the rates have been updated. However, since some traders have expressed concerns, we will ask the Port Authority to re-examine the issue,” he said.
Highlighting the significance of Laldia Char Terminal, he said the facility will increase container storage capacity at Chittagong Port from 56,000 TEUs to 66,000 TEUs — an additional 10,000 TEUs. This is a major opportunity for businesses. The improved capacity will enhance operational efficiency,” he added.
According to port officials, the Laldia Char Terminal spans 14 acres, offering storage for 10,000 TEUs and parking space for 1,500 trucks. Additionally, an 8-acre heavy lift cargo jetty backup area and a 10-acre site for the APM terminal have been developed.
The advisor was also scheduled to attend a meeting later in the afternoon regarding port charges and the new tariff structure. However, the meeting was postponed.
