Feeder and main line operators said they need discount on port charges to face the global economic recession.
They said formal proposal will be placed at a meeting with the shipping minister scheduled for tomorrow (Sunday).
"We need lower rate of charges following fall in cargo movement because of the crisis," said Md Rafiqul Islam, country director of PIL, a leading feeder operator.
Besides, feeder and main line operators want a cut in the existing charges for using gantry cranes, hook point-off dock, refrigerated containers and tug boat and storing empty containers.
Currently, gantry cranes charges are at US$ 15 for a 20-feet container and $ 22.5 for a 40-foot container, the charges are for a 20-foot container at $ 6.0 and $ 12 for 40-foot container for each day. The electricity charge for refrigerated container is at $ 9.0 each container.
Farubar Anwar, managing director of Gold Star Hong Kong, a main line operator, told the FE: "The rents at Chittagong port are higher than other regional ports. We have already submitted a prayer to the Chairman of Chittagong port on the issue,"
Sources said neighbouring ports including Karachi, Colombo, and Jakarta have reduced the port charges on an average 10 per cent recently.
Rafique, who is also a senior leader of Chittagong Feeder Trade Committee (CFTC), an organisation of feeder operators, said they want such reduction in charges for the time being.
"We want such discount for at least next one year. After the end of recession we don't need it.
Feeder and main line operators mainly want a 25 per cent discount on gantry crane charges, 30 per cent discount on empty container storing.
