Chittagong Port, which serves as the main seaport for Bangladesh, reached an impressive achievement by processing a record number of 3.296 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) of containers in the financial year 2024-25.This historic achievement marks the highest volume in the port’s 48-year history of container operations, showcasing its vital and growing role in both national and global trade. Alongside this impressive container throughput, the Chittagong Custom House, the country’s largest customs station, also reported a significant revenue collection of Tk 75,432 crore for the same fiscal year, reflecting a healthy 9.71% growth from the previous year. This record performance is particularly noteworthy given various challenges faced throughout the year, including global uncertainties and some domestic disruptions. Despite these hurdles, the port demonstrated immense resilience and adaptability, managing to not only maintain but also improve its operational efficiency. The 4% increase in container handling compared to last year, exceeding the 3.168 million TEUs managed in FY 2023-24, indicates a robust rebound and rising demand in global trade. Such an increase in activity directly translates into robust economic benefits for the nation. Beyond container handling, the port also saw a significant rise in open cargo handling, which grew by over 6% to reach 130 million tonnes. In FY25, 4,077 ships arrived at the docks, which is more than the 3,971 that came in the year before. These figures collectively underscore the port’s expanding capacity and its undeniable importance as the lifeline of Bangladesh’s economy, handling nearly 99% of the country’s containerized trade. The constant flow of goods, from essential raw materials for the ready-made garment industry to finished products for export, critically depends on the port’s smooth operations. Port officials and stakeholders attribute this success to coordinated efforts and continuous improvements in infrastructure and technology. Initiatives such as the expansion of automation services, the introduction of an e-gate pass system, and the modernization of the container operating system have played a crucial role in enhancing efficiency and speeding up cargo movement. These advancements help reduce turnaround times for ships and optimize the flow of goods, ultimately benefiting importers, exporters, and consumers alike. The remarkable accomplishments of Chittagong Port go beyond mere numbers; they clearly show how Bangladesh is improving its role in international trade and recovering economically.It highlights the potential for sustained growth and underscores the importance of ongoing investments in port infrastructure and capacity. With this momentum, Chittagong Port is poised to continue its pivotal contribution to Bangladesh’s economic development, facilitating trade and bringing prosperity to the nation.
