Bangladesh is set to transfer the management of three key container terminals to international operators by December, aiming to enhance port operations and trade efficiency. The terminals involved are Chattogram’s New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT), Laldia Terminal, and Pangaon Inland Container Terminal, as reported by the Bangladesh Shipping Ministry.
The agreements will feature a 30-year lease for Laldia Terminal and 25-year management contracts for NCT and Pangaon. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce vessel waiting times, currently costing operators around $15,000 daily, while improving cargo handling through advanced management and technology. Although there may be minor adjustments to service tariffs after a long period of stability, increased efficiency and expedited turnaround times are expected to mitigate the impact.
These advancements are anticipated to draw in more ship traffic and investments into Bangladesh’s maritime sector. Industry participants have called for additional incentives for local shipowners and reforms in customs and shipbuilding tariffs to bolster Bangladesh’s competitiveness as a regional maritime hub. DP World is under consideration as a potential global partner, while Chittagong Dry Dock Limited will manage interim terminal operations until the new contracts are active.
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