Bangladesh plans to transfer management of three major container terminals to international operators by December, in a move aimed at modernising port operations and boosting trade efficiency. The facilities include Chattogram’s New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT), the Laldia Terminal, and the Pangaon Inland Container Terminal near Keraniganj, according to the Bangladesh Shipping Ministry.
Under the proposed agreements, Laldia Terminal will be leased for 30 years, while NCT and Pangaon will be managed under 25-year contracts. The move is expected to significantly cut vessel waiting times—currently costing operators about $15,000 per day—and accelerate cargo handling through modern management and technology. Although service tariffs may see modest adjustments after years of stagnation, faster turnaround times and improved efficiency are expected to more than offset the impact.
These improvements are projected to attract higher ship traffic and new investments into Bangladesh’s maritime sector. Industry stakeholders at the event called for continued incentives for local shipowners and reforms in customs and shipbuilding tariffs to strengthen Bangladesh’s position as a competitive regional maritime hub. Among the potential global partners under consideration is DP World, while Chittagong Dry Dock Limited will oversee interim terminal operations until the new management contracts take effect.
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