The Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) has initiated a new process to recruit berth and ship-handling operators by issuing fresh licences, a move that has triggered mixed reactions among stakeholders.
While port users have welcomed the decision, saying it will increase competition and efficiency, existing berth operators have voiced strong objections, warning of possible legal action.
The announcement follows CPA’s cancellation of 23 operator licences in November 2024 over allegations of irregularities and political influence during their recruitment.
At present, 12 berth operators manage cargo at the General Cargo Berth (GCB), while 33 ship-handling operators handle consignments at the outer anchorage. Six major conglomerates dominate ship-handling operations, accounting for around 70% of the port’s cargo, mostly for their own businesses.
On 30 September, CPA issued a public notice inviting applications for new licences until 31 October. Applicants must show proof of operational capacity, skilled manpower, equipment, financial solvency, insurance for workers, tax compliance, and agreements with shipping lines. Each application requires a Tk1 lakh non-refundable pay order.
CPA officials said the goal is to enhance efficiency at the country’s busiest port, which annually handles over 130 million tonnes of cargo and 3.3 million TEUs.
CPA Secretary Omar Faruk confirmed the move, saying it was in line with new rules set by the shipping ministry. “A committee will evaluate applications and issue licences according to the regulations,” he said.
Berth operators, however, are opposed. Fazle Ekram Chowdhury, president of the Bangladesh Berth Operators Association, called the initiative “illegal and disruptive,” citing valid agreements with CPA until 2027. “Appointing new operators before then will violate contracts and create disorder,” he warned.
Ship-handling operators and trade leaders, on the other hand, expressed support. Amirul Haque, managing director of Seacom Shipping Line, said port operations should remain open to qualified applicants to ensure competition. Former Chittagong Chamber director Mahfuzul Hoque Shah also welcomed the move but urged CPA to avoid political influence, modernise operations, and enforce safety and wage standards.
Chattogram port is the country’s primary trade gateway, handling more than 90% of Bangladesh’s import and export cargo. In FY25, it set a record by managing 3.29 million TEUs and 130.7 million tonnes of goods with 4,077 ships.
Although recent expansions have eased congestion, several terminals continue to operate above capacity, leaving efficiency improvements a key challenge for the port’s future growth.
