Chittagong Port, the largest seaport in Bangladesh (also known as Chattogram Port), is currently facing an unprecedented congestion crisis. Nearly 40,000 containers are piled up at the terminal, severely disrupting normal port operations and timely cargo handling.

This situation places immense pressure on importers, who not only contend with economic losses due to factory closures and shipment delays but also bear the burden of high demurrage fees resulting from container backlogs. According to port regulations, demurrage fees increase over time, exacerbating the challenges faced by struggling businesses.

In response to this crisis, the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and the Chattogram Chamber of Commerce and Industry have urgently called on the government to take measures to alleviate or waive demurrage fees for importers. Last week, they specifically requested a waiver of demurrage fees during a specified period and a temporary suspension of additional charges after port operations resume.

Simultaneously, student protests within Bangladesh have indirectly impacted Chittagong Port. Road blockades, curfews, and internet restrictions have further compounded the port’s operational difficulties. Although internet services have gradually been restored, the port’s handling capacity remains far from normal, allowing only a limited number of containers to be processed daily.

Facing this critical situation, Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury, Deputy Minister of Shipping in Bangladesh, assured that the government is actively considering measures to ease the economic burden on businesses. He mentioned that during the pandemic, similar experiences led to successful implementation of warehouse fee waivers. Therefore, adjustments based on actual business needs are possible this time as well. However, the actual conditions at Chittagong Port remain concerning, with yard space nearly saturated and operations hindered. Collaborative efforts from all stakeholders are urgently needed to find solutions.