The Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) hosted a courtesy meeting on 14th August, with the BGMEA Chittagong Board to discuss pressing issues affecting the city’s garment export supply chain.
The discussions centered on a range of operational and logistical challenges at the port. Key issues raised included a four-fold increase in FCL container storage rent, a proposed 40% tariff hike, and persistent delays in ship berthing. Participants also highlighted operational difficulties at the Patenga Container Terminal, delays in unloading LCL goods, and shortages of handling equipment. Alongside these concerns, updates on the Bay Terminal project were shared, along with a proposal to introduce a One-Stop Service to streamline processes. The discussions further emphasized the need for port digitalization and stronger cybersecurity measures to enhance efficiency and resilience.
Both sides emphasised the need to enhance port efficiency to ensure timely export-import operations, particularly for the ready-made garment sector, which depends heavily on smooth logistics.
Rear Admiral S. M. Moniruzzaman, Chairman of CPA, received the BGMEA delegation led by First Vice President Selim Rahman. Other BGMEA representatives included Vice President Mohammad Rafiq Chowdhury, Directors Mohammad Abdus Salam, Saif Ullah Mansur, Enamul Aziz Chowdhury, Sakif Ahmed Salam, Port Affairs Advisor A.M. Mahabub Chowdhury, and Ryan Shams, Co-Chairman of the War Affairs Standing Committee.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to collaborate on resolving these challenges and implementing measures to strengthen the port’s operational capacity and competitiveness.
