BusinessToday24 Correspondent, Chattogram:
DP World, the UAE-based global port and logistics giant, has expressed interest in taking over operations of the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) at the Port of Chattogram. Official discussions with relevant government authorities in Bangladesh have already begun.
DP World operates container terminals in nearly 60 countries, with a long-standing track record in the field. At various ports around the world, the company has consistently maintained international standards in ship handling efficiency, turnaround time, and average TEU handling per hour. A closer look at their operations in key South Asian ports further illustrates this.
In Sri Lanka, DP World manages the Colombo International Container Terminal (CICT), which handled approximately 3.35 million TEUs in 2024. According to port sources, the terminal maintains a productivity rate of about 115 container moves per hour. A large container vessel typically requires 18 to 20 hours from anchoring to departure, resulting in a highly efficient turnaround time.
In India, DP World operates a terminal at the Mundra Port, which recorded over 1.42 million TEUs in 2024. Crane productivity at this terminal averages 33 moves per hour—among the highest in South Asia. A mid-sized container vessel typically completes loading and unloading in about 20 hours.
DP World also manages the Visakha Container Terminal at the Port of Visakhapatnam. Here, the average ship turnaround time is around 17 hours, with approximately 24 to 26 container moves per hour. Compared to other Indian ports, the Visakhapatnam terminal completes vessel operations in relatively shorter durations.
In Vietnam’s Hai Phong and Cai Mep ports, where DP World also operates, handling efficiency is notably swift. These terminals boast some of the lowest turnaround times in Southeast Asia, with full ship operations completed in just 12 to 18 hours. This performance sets a benchmark for quick discharge and export management.
The selection of an operator for Chattogram’s NCT is a crucial decision. Given DP World’s past experience, technical capacity, and operational excellence, the company remains a competitive contender in the South Asian port landscape. However, in the context of Chattogram, issues such as fair tariffs, transparent operations, and the impact on the local labor market will be key considerations.
DP World officials believe that if they are given the opportunity to operate NCT, they can introduce global-standard technologies, skilled manpower, and automated handling systems to significantly improve terminal efficiency. While the Chattogram Port Authority has yet to issue a formal stance, the scope and pace of the ongoing discussions suggest a final decision is on the horizon.
Several top garment exporters in Bangladesh have voiced support for the involvement of a foreign operator. While some stakeholders view such a move skeptically, industry insiders argue it sends a positive signal to global buyers. They believe that operations led by a globally reputed entity like DP World would boost Bangladesh’s image in the international market. Buyers would feel more confident knowing that shipments from Bangladesh will be delivered on time and reliably—ultimately strengthening trust and securing future orders.
DP World is a UAE-based global ports and logistics company established in 2005. Today, it operates over 80 marine and inland terminals across more than 60 countries. Through advanced technology, automation, and fast ship handling, DP World plays a key role in enabling international trade. With consistently low turnaround times at its terminals, the company has become a trusted name for global exporters.
In South Asia alone, DP World has a strong presence at key ports like Colombo, Mundra, and Visakhapatnam, where it has earned international recognition for time-bound and dependable shipment management.
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