The shipping sector is one of the main driving forces of Bangladesh's economy. The country's economic growth largely depends on the sustainable development of this sector. With this vision in mind, we have undertaken various drastic development initiatives over the past year.
The last year has been a year of strengthening our capacity and efficiency. The Chattogram Port Authority achieved unprecedented records in container and cargo handling, marking a unique milestone for our national economy. Increased operational efficiency at the port has significantly reduced vessel wait times, enhanced our competitiveness in global trade, and substantially contributed to national revenue.
For the first time in the country's 54-year history, the National Ports Strategy has been formulated. The objective is to ensure the long-term and sustainable development of the country's land, river, and seaports, improve coordination among ports, and strengthen the overall maritime sector. It is expected that the National Port Strategy will bring a transformative change in the country's port management system.
Groundbreaking steps have also been taken in developing infrastructure in the shipping sector. The inclusion of foreign investment and technology in the Laldia Terminal and Pangaon Container Terminal will elevate port management to global standards. Work on the Matarbari Deep Sea Port and the Bay Terminal is progressing rapidly, which will position Bangladesh as a regional trade hub. Chinese investment in the comprehensive modernization of Mongla Port, along with enhanced coastal shipping connectivity with Chattogram, has taken our logistics capacity to new heights. Foreign investment in infrastructure will further expand both domestic and international maritime trade.
Special emphasis has been placed on "Green Shipping" and environmentally sustainable maritime transport. A national action plan has been adopted to reduce carbon emissions in compliance with global IMO standards. At the same time, the development of a skilled workforce and improvements in Bangladesh's global ranking in ship ownership have strengthened our readiness to harness the potential of the Blue Economy.
As Bangladesh continues to modernize its ports and expand maritime capabilities, it is building a robust foundation for sustained foreign investment, resilient trade growth, and its emergence as a future regional hub for maritime trade and logistics.
