CHATTOGRAM, Aug 31: Copenhagen-based port and cargo operator Maersk Group is going to set up a new container terminal near the Chittagong Port.
The Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) has given its initial approval to Maersk to set up the container terminal near the country's prime sea-port.
Maersk Group Chief Executive Officer Robert Maersk Uggla recently called on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
CPA Chairman Rear Admiral Mohammad Sohail said, "The CPA reviewed the Maersk's proposal and gave initial approval after the Ministry of Shipping (MoS) sought opinion. We are waiting for the ministry's final decision."
He said the Danish shipping and logistic giant came up with the proposal to build and operate a container terminal in Laldia area, which is near to the port facility.
"If the proposal is approved by the MoS, it will be the fourth container terminal of the Chittagong Port," he added.
The Bangladesh Shipping Agents Association welcomed the proposal. Its Chairman Syed Mohammad Arif said Maersk Line owns most containers that carry import-export goods through the port.
Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry Director Mahfujul Haque Shah said Maersk Group is world famous in port sector.
Its proposal to set up a container terminal is good news. Maersk's involvement with the Chittagong Port would increase the port's prestige as well as quality, he added.
The port's three container terminals are now being handled by Saif Powertech, a Bangladeshi enterprise.
Sources said the CPA is now set to lease out two terminals - the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) and the Patenga Container Terminal (PCT) - to foreign operators. It would ensure healthy competition among the terminal operators and provide international standard services to the port users.
The MoS has taken a decision to appoint Red Sea Gateway Terminal (RSGT) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) to operate the newly-constructed PCT. The ministry is now consulting with the company, they added.
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