A fresh proposal to modernize and jointly operate two of Chattogram Port Authority’s busiest container terminals has brought renewed attention to the future management of the country’s main seaport.
UAE-based global port operator DP World has proposed an integrated operational model combining the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) and the adjacent Chittagong Container Terminal (CCT) under a single management framework to improve efficiency, container handling capacity, and vessel turnaround time at Chattogram Port.
The proposal was presented during the fourth Bangladesh-Dubai Joint Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Platform meeting held in Dubai on April 8. According to officials familiar with the discussions, DP World also expressed interest in investing in wider logistics infrastructure connected to the port sector.
The latest development comes after the interim government suspended the NCT leasing process on February 9 amid labor unrest and criticism from different quarters. Unlike the earlier leasing initiative, the new proposal is being considered as a broader long-term modernization project.
Sources said DP World sought revisions to the proposed 15-year concession period and called for transparent revenue-sharing mechanisms and clear workforce management policies. Bangladesh’s PPP Authority is now reviewing the proposal separately.
Currently, the General Cargo Berth (GCB), Chittagong Container Terminal (CCT), and New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) are operated by local companies. Among them, the nearly 950-meter-long NCT handles a major portion of Bangladesh’s import and export container traffic.
Port insiders say growing trade volumes are increasing pressure on port operations, making automation, modern equipment, and internationally standardized management systems essential for maintaining competitiveness.
The participation of a global operator like DP World is expected to improve operational performance and attract further foreign investment. However, concerns remain over national security, protection of local employment, and safeguarding national interests.
Earlier, local logistics giant MGH Group had proposed investing between $250 million and $300 million in the CCT project, though the initiative did not move forward.
At the same time, development work on the Bay Terminal project at Laldia Char is continuing with support from Maersk Line. The project is expected to become operational within the next three years and is considered crucial for expanding the capacity of Chattogram Port.
According to port sources, DP World is also interested in investing in the Bay Container Terminal, Dhirasram Inland Container Depot (ICD), and the port’s digital single-window system as part of a broader vision to transform Bangladesh into a regional logistics and transshipment hub.
Bangladesh PPP Authority Chief Executive Officer Ashik Chowdhury represented Bangladesh at the Dubai meeting, where discussions focused on infrastructure investment opportunities and modernization of port operations.
Shipping Adviser Dr. M Sakhawat Hossain said the government would prioritize national interests in any decision involving strategic port facilities and would carefully evaluate economic, security, and labor-related implications before making a final decision.
Experts believe that with proper oversight and transparent implementation, international participation could significantly strengthen the operational capacity and global competitiveness of Chattogram Port.
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