Chattogram Port, the country's prime seaport, has achieved a milestone by handling over 3.23 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) of containers so far this year, reports BSS.
This marks a new record for the port, surpassing the previous high of approximately 3.215 million TEUs in 2021.
The port authority expects that the total container volume for the year would reach around 3.28 million TEUs by the end of December.
Chattogram Port had entered the 'Three million club' in 2019 by handling around 3.088 million TEUs.
Mohd. Omar Faruk, secretary of Chittagong Port Authority, told BSS that this is a positive indicator that businesses have successfully overcome the challenges of this year.
With the current rate of container handling, the port's global ranking is expected to improve, he added.
Despite global crises and natural disasters, he said, the achievement is due to efficient port management, cooperation among stakeholders and growth in import-export trade.
"Global crises have started to subside, leading to a revival in trade. This has resulted in increased imports and exports, thereby boosting container handling. Additionally, various initiatives have been undertaken to streamline port operations. The cumulative effect of these factors is evident in the improved port performance," he added.
He also said the growth is a testament to the dedication of the authority, various stakeholders and everyone else involved.
Faruk said the country's import-export activities have gained some pace this year, having an impact on the volume of container.
The London-based shipping publication, Lloyd's List, regularly compiles a ranking of global container handling. According to the 2023 list, Chattogram Port is currently ranked 67th. The port authorities and users expect the port's global ranking to improve further due to the record container handling in 2024.
Throughout the year, the port's operations were disrupted by natural disasters, anti-government agitation and a curfew in July and August, along with internet shutdowns and floods. Despite these challenges, the achievement of such a high level of container handling is being viewed positively by the country's business community.
