Bangladesh has pulled back from plans to lease Chattogram’s New Mooring Container Terminal to a foreign operator amid port worker protests 

Bangladesh’s interim administration will not sign a concession agreement with DP World to operate the New Mooring Container Terminal at Chattogram Port after the operator requested additional time to review the draft deal, pushing any possible signing beyond the election period, according to Bangladesh’s Public-Private Partnership Authority. 

The announcement came as dock workers resumed an indefinite strike

The announcement came from a senior official of the interim administration headed by Muhammad Yunus, even as dock workers resumed an indefinite strike after a two-day pause. The fresh shutdown follows an earlier six-day work stoppage protesting the government’s proposal to lease out the terminal to a foreign private company.

Review of the draft concession agreement.

Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, ,executive chairman of the Public-Private Partnership Authority  and executive chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority Bida, said DP World had formally asked for more time to conduct an internal review of the draft concession agreement.

The proposed lease agreement with Dubai based port operator DP World for the New Mooring Container Terminal at Chattogram Port is unlikely to be finalized during the tenure of the current interim government.

DP World is satisfied with the progress of negotiations

Ashik said DP World is satisfied with the progress of negotiations but has asked for more time to review the draft concession agreement. With only a few working days left before the national election, he said the discussions are likely to continue under the next government.He said DP World has formally received the draft agreement and will conduct a detailed review, adding that finalizing such a large concession naturally requires more time.

Related : DP World explores operations at both ends of Panama Canal

Government framework between Bangladesh and UAE

Ashik clarified that the project is being implemented under a Government to Government framework between Bangladesh and the United Arab Emirates. The Chattogram Port Authority and DP World are the main contracting parties, while the Public Private Partnership Authority is only facilitating the negotiations and is not the final decision maker.

Ongoing protests by port workers opposing the leasing plan

The comments come amid ongoing protests by port workers opposing the leasing plan, which have disrupted port operations and raised concerns over supply chain delays and economic losses. Business leaders estimate the work stoppage has already caused losses of at least Tk 3000 crore.Despite claims by port authorities that operations have resumed, shipping agents and operators say cargo handling and delivery remain suspended, adding to uncertainty over trade and exports.

About :DP World

DP World is an international ports and logistics operator headquartered in Dubai. Its Annual Report and Accounts 2024 states that Port & Free Zone World FZE holds 100% of the company’s issued share capital, with Dubai World Corporation as the parent entity and the Government of Dubai as the group’s ultimate owner. Handling roughly 10% of global container traffic. Operating in over 75 countries, it manages ports, terminals, marine services, and economic zones, connecting businesses through a vast network to streamline trade.

About Chattogram Port Authority

 The Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) is an autonomous government agency under Bangladesh's Ministry of Shipping, responsible for the management, operation, and development of the Port of Chattogram. As the country's primary maritime hub, handling over 70% of its export-import trade, it regulates vessel movements and provides essential logistics services.

Related : MSC Group to Boost Trade Connectivity for Bangladesh with Inland Terminal Investment

Source :Many Sources

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