Bangladesh Navy to Take Over Operations of Chattogram Port’s NCT

Press Briefing Following Port Management Meeting

BusinessToday24 Correspondent, Dhaka: The New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) of the Chattogram Port Authority will come under the operational management of the Bangladesh Navy starting next Monday. The Navy will oversee operations for a period of six months until a permanent operator is appointed.

This information was disclosed on Wednesday afternoon by Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr. M Sakhawat Hossain, Advisor to the Ministry of Shipping and the Ministry of Labour and Employment, following a meeting held at the Secretariat.

The current agreement between the Chattogram Port Authority and Saif Powertec, the existing operator, ends on July 6.

The advisor stated that to enhance the efficiency of port operations and accelerate import-export trade, the government has decided to assign temporary management of the NCT to the Navy. The Chattogram Port Authority has also been tasked with appointing a permanent operator. Until that process is complete, the Bangladesh Navy will take charge of operations.

He clarified that the current employees working at the terminal will retain their jobs. Moreover, the Navy may seek assistance from experienced personnel and institutions previously involved in terminal operations if necessary.

Emphasizing national interest, the advisor stated that the government will not hand over port operations to any foreign company at the cost of national interest. No final agreement has yet been signed with any foreign firm regarding NCT operations. Initial talks are ongoing with several international entities, including Dubai Port World. However, the Chattogram Port Authority will retain full control and ownership. These entities, if engaged, will act as contractual operators for a fixed term to help bring international standards to port operations.

It was also noted in the meeting that many modern ports around the world—especially in Europe and the Middle East—are operated by global companies, which has improved efficiency, speed, and modernization. Bangladesh, too, aims to upgrade Chattogram Port to international standards by drawing from these experiences.

The advisor added that a capable operator at NCT will reduce cargo unloading time, lower transportation costs, attract larger vessels, and help open new shipping routes. As a result, daily container handling at the port could increase from the current 4,000–5,000 TEUs to around 6,000 TEUs. Annual container throughput growth is projected to reach 15–20 percent.

He emphasized that the government’s goal is to utilize domestic capabilities to achieve international standards, and that the Chattogram Port Authority is working toward that objective. The government remains committed to the port’s development and to protecting employment.

He further mentioned that the existing agreements with Saif Powertec will remain in effect during this transition. Rear Admiral S M Moniruzzaman, Chairman of the Chattogram Port Authority, was present at the meeting.