In a move poised to enhance trade connectivity and reduce export costs for the greater Khulna region, a regular container ship service is set to launch between Mongla and Chattogram ports from mid-April. This domestic maritime route is expected to offer exporters in the region a more efficient logistics solution, especially for goods such as frozen fish, jute, and other local products, reports UNB.
The initiative represents a strategic effort to revitalise Mongla Port, Bangladesh’s second-largest seaport, which has made a remarkable turnaround in recent years. Once plagued by limited activity and infrastructure challenges, the port has transformed into a growing, revenue-generating hub thanks to multiple development and expansion projects. Increased vessel traffic has not only boosted the port’s income but also created new employment opportunities for the local community.
Despite these gains, Mongla still faces significant hurdles. These include poor navigability in some areas, underutilisation of existing infrastructure, and high operational costs. Presently, container ship movement at the port is limited to approximately one vessel per month, falling short of the region’s export potential.
Syed Zahid Hossain, President of the Mongla Port Berth and Ship Operator Association, pointed to a key barrier in scaling up container operations. “Container imports through Mongla are minimal. As a result, there’s a shortage of empty containers. Bringing them in from Chattogram adds costs, making exports more expensive. If container ships begin operating directly on the Chattogram-Mongla route, both time and expenses can be significantly reduced.”
Recognising this gap, Chattogram-based shipping agent Sea Glory has stepped forward to operate small container vessels along the new domestic route. Their plan involves transporting empty containers from Chattogram to Mongla, where they will be filled with export-bound cargo and shipped back through Chattogram for international delivery.
Mainul Hossain, Manager of Sea Glory Shipping, explained the company’s approach. “If we are treated like a feeder service, the process becomes complicated. But if we operate on the Pangaon model—simply moving empty containers from Chattogram to Mongla—it becomes more straightforward and financially viable.”
In February, Sea Glory completed a successful trial run, transporting 100 TEUs (around 70 containers) along the route. Based on the positive outcome, they plan to officially commence regular container movement from mid-April. The containers will mainly carry fish, frozen products, and jute—items for which Khulna is known.
Direct exports from Mongla remain challenging due to limited container handling capacity and high costs. In contrast, leveraging Chattogram as a transshipment hub offers a quicker and more economical route for international shipping.
Omar Faruk, Secretary of the Chattogram Port Authority, acknowledged the current limitations at Mongla, especially its inability to handle larger vessels due to draft issues. “In such situations, rerouting cargo through Chattogram is a logical step. If Mongla is short on containers, we’re ready to support shipping agents in facilitating exports through Chattogram.”
Captain Rafiqul Islam, Chairman of the Bangladesh Shipping Agents Association in Khulna, underscored the need for collaboration. “Due to the shortage of containers, regular exports have become difficult. Both ports must work together and adopt a flexible approach. Importers and operators should receive special incentives to ensure the sustainability of this domestic route.”
Rear Admiral Shaheen Rahman, Chairman of the Mongla Port Authority, expressed optimism about the port’s future. “Mongla is now more dynamic than ever. Alongside major infrastructure projects, we are expanding capacity and improving all facilities to raise both import and export volumes. Once these projects are complete, they will have a significant impact on the regional and national economy.”
The start of regular container movement between Chattogram and Mongla marks a major milestone in Bangladesh’s domestic shipping sector. It not only opens up a more cost-effective and faster export pathway for the southwest but also promises to enhance national trade efficiency and economic resilience.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
