Bangladesh is entering a transformative era in maritime development. With over 90 percent of its trade moving through ports, the country is strategically modernizing port infrastructure, strengthening digital systems, and expanding international partnerships to position itself as a regional trade hub.
The January–February 2026 edition of the FICCI Special Bulletin highlights how modern and efficient ports are shaping Bangladesh’s competitiveness in global trade and investment.
In the editorial section (page 4), FICCI emphasizes that strong port infrastructure is no longer optional — it is essential for global competitiveness. Efficient ports reduce costs, shorten turnaround times, and increase investor confidence.
Chittagong Port, handling the vast majority of Bangladesh’s maritime trade, plays a critical role in this transformation. Strategic reforms, infrastructure expansion, and digital modernization are accelerating its evolution into a modern trade gateway.
In her message (page 5), the President of FICCI underscores the importance of public-private partnership (PPP) in strengthening port efficiency and supply chain resilience.
Bangladesh’s improved connectivity and investor-friendly environment are attracting both domestic and foreign investments. FICCI continues to engage policymakers and industry leaders to promote sustainable growth and economic diversification.
As highlighted in pages 7–8, Bangladesh has formulated its first National Ports Strategy to ensure coordinated development across seaports, inland ports, and river terminals.
Major initiatives include:
These projects aim to reduce congestion, increase throughput capacity, and enhance Bangladesh’s ranking in global shipping indexes.
On page 9–10, insights from the Executive Chairman of BIDA & BEZA emphasize that modern ports are integrated systems combining:
Vietnam’s transformation is cited as a benchmark example — demonstrating that policy reform combined with operational efficiency can drastically improve global rankings.
In the in-depth interview (pages 11–15), the CPA Chairman outlines major achievements:
Operational reforms have significantly lowered waiting periods and improved berth productivity.
The upcoming Bay Terminal will:
Partnerships with global terminal operators and technology providers are strengthening operational standards and compliance with international best practices.
The bulletin (pages 16–19) discusses the importance of port modernization in combating smuggling and illicit trade.
Key challenges include:
The solution lies in:
Modernized ports not only protect revenue but also ensure product safety, investor confidence, and economic stability.
The final article (page 20) focuses on the Laldia Container Terminal project, developed under a public-private partnership model with international expertise.
This terminal will:
With increasing manufacturing exports, especially in textiles and ready-made garments, such infrastructure is vital for sustaining economic momentum.
Modern ports mean:
✔ Lower logistics costs
✔ Faster cargo clearance
✔ Higher reliability
✔ Improved trade security
✔ Increased foreign investment
Bangladesh’s maritime transformation is not just about infrastructure — it is about building a resilient, transparent, and competitive trade ecosystem.
Bangladesh is strategically aligning policy reform, infrastructure development, and digital innovation to transform its port sector.
With coordinated leadership from government agencies, active engagement from FICCI, and collaboration with global partners, the country is steadily positioning itself as a regional logistics hub.
The journey toward a modern, efficient port system is well underway — and it signals a promising future for trade, investment, and economic prosperity.
