CHATTOGRAM, Oct 7, 2025 (BSS) - Container, cargo, and ship handling at Chattogram Port registered a notable increase during the first quarter (July-September) of the current fiscal year 2025-26 compared to the same period of the previous fiscal year.

According to port sources, a total of 927,713 TEUs (20-foot equivalent units) of containers were handled at the port in the first three months of FY 2025-26 - up by 111,185 TEUs or 12.24 percent from the same period last fiscal year.

During this period, the port also handled 32,919,966 tonnes of cargo and 1,031 ships, marking growth rates of 13.88 percent and 9.22 percent, respectively.

Port sources attribute this progress to the continuous increase in port activities and efficiency. Significant advancements have been made in expanding jetty and yard facilities, enhancing container, cargo, and ship handling capabilities.

Chattogram Drydock Limited (CDDL), operated by the Bangladesh Navy, has achieved significant success at the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) of the port. 

In the fiscal year 2025-26, CDDL handled 342,649 TEUs of containers from July to September, marking a 13.88% growth compared to the previous year. This increase amounts to 41,754 TEUs more than the same period in the previous fiscal year.

During the first three months of the fiscal year 2025-26, NCT handled a total of 178 ships, representing a 17.11% growth compared to the previous year. 

This performance sets a new record for container and ship handling at NCT. In the calendar year, Chattogram Port has shown positive results, with 25,63,450 TEUs of containers handled from January to September 2025, reflecting a growth rate of 4.98% compared to the previous year.

Additionally, cargo handling at Chattogram Port in the last nine months reached 10,27,04,259 tons, with 3,161 ships handled, showing growth rates of 11.70% and 10.37%, respectively. 

Port users attribute the slower-than-expected global economic pace to factors like wars and geopolitical tensions in various regions.

Port activities have faced disruptions due to incidents like transport strikes, customs delays, and shutdowns. 

However, with the cooperation of port officials, employees, workers, and stakeholders, operational activities have not been significantly impacted. Container, cargo, and ship handling have increased, leading to positive growth in export earnings. New projects, infrastructure improvements, and digitalization efforts are progressing rapidly.

Officials from Chattogram Port emphasized its crucial role as the economic hub of Bangladesh, generating a significant portion of national revenue. 

The port aims to modernize operations, reduce ship dwell times, expand facilities, and ensure safe and efficient management to support national import and export activities. 

The dedicated efforts of officials and employees have resulted in a record-breaking year for container handling in the 2024-25 fiscal year, marking a 48-year record. The port continues to advance under the guidance of the Ministry of Shipping's Advisor and the Port Chairman's leadership.