Chattogram: Adviser to the Ministry of Shipping Brigadier General (retd) Dr. M Sakhawat Hussain announced that the government is in the process of formulating a National Port Strategy aimed at outlining the long-term development of the country’s land, river, and seaports. The announcement was made during a workshop on ‘Customs and Port Management: Problems, Prospects, and Way Forward’ at the Chittagong Port Authority Auditorium in Chattogram.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the workshop was organized by the Support to Sustainable Graduation Project (SSGP) in collaboration with the Chittagong Port Authority. Special guests included Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser Dr. Anisuzzaman Chowdhury, Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Shipping Mohammed Yousuf, and Chairman of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) Md Abdur Rahman Khan, among others. ERD Secretary Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky chaired the workshop, as reported by an ERD press release.
Brigadier General (retd) Dr. M Sakhawat Hussain stated, “The National Port Strategy is being formulated. Hopefully, the strategy will be finalized by the end of this year.” He also mentioned that a recently revised tariff structure at the Chattogram port would be postponed by a month. Furthermore, plans to construct a cold chamber at Mongla Port for perishable goods were discussed, with hopes to transform Mongla Port into a regional trading hub.
Special Assistant Dr. Anisuzzaman Chowdhury urged the formation of a taskforce to expedite seaport operations, while other discussants called for a review of the revised tariff structure. Senior Secretary Mohammed Yousuf emphasized the importance of complying with International Maritime Organization regulations and investing in seaport infrastructure. He noted that funds from the tariff increase would be directed towards these developments.
Chairman of the NBR Md Abdur Rahman Khan highlighted steps taken to streamline customs procedures, including the installation of scanners at ports and the introduction of ‘Authorized Economic Operator’ provisions. The ERD Secretary also noted the need for improvements in environmental compliance and competitiveness to meet challenges post-LDC graduation.
Rear Admiral S. M. Moniruzzaman of the Chittagong Port Authority advocated for the construction of a deep seaport to support large ships and ensure continuity during disruptions at Chattogram Port. He called for a comprehensive policy for seamless transit of goods through seaports.
The workshop also featured a keynote presentation by former Secretary Abdul Baki, emphasizing the coordinated roles of private sector operators and government agencies in reducing consignment clearance time. Automation of customs procedures and enhancement of road infrastructure around Chattogram Port were also discussed as measures to improve port efficiency.
Bangladesh is set to graduate from LDC status on 24 November 2026, making efficient trade practices crucial for maintaining development momentum and attracting foreign investment. The workshop aimed to identify challenges in port and customs operations and explore strategies for improvement in alignment with global best practices. Senior officials, trade association representatives, and think tanks were among the attendees.