BSC's newly acquired MV Banglar Nabojatra begins commercial voyage to US

MV Nabojatra sets sails for the US on 3 February 2026. Photo: TBS

Bangladesh Shipping Corporation's (BSC) newly acquired vessel MV Banglar Nabojatra has commenced commercial operations, marking a major milestone in the state-owned carrier's fleet renewal programme. 

Earlier in October last year, another newly purchased ship Banglar Progoti joined the BSC fleet. With the latest addition the number of ships in BSC fleet now stands at seven. The last two China-made ships were purchased from an American company named Helenic Dry Bulk LLC at $77 million last year through an international tender.

According to a message circulated by BSC Managing Director Commodore Mahmudul Malek, the ship sailed for commercial employment at 5:05pm on 2 February from Jingjiang International Berth in China. The bulk carrier has been chartered to Singapore-based Akij Shipping at a daily rate of $20,000, equivalent to around Tk25 lakh, and has set out on its maiden voyage to the United States.

BSC officials said the vessel's departure effectively concludes the acquisition process of the corporation's first-ever self-financed ships, a development described as unprecedented in the organisation's history. The entire visiting team involved in the acquisition process, including representatives from the UK and China, returned to Bangladesh safely from Shanghai on Sunday night.

The latest addition comes against the backdrop of BSC's long-running efforts to modernise its ageing fleet and reduce dependence on government budgetary support. BSC officials said the corporation had moved towards self-financing as part of a broader strategy to strengthen its balance sheet, expand commercial operations and improve competitiveness in the international shipping market.

Over the past decade, BSC has added several vessels with government financing to revive its fleet after years of decline. However, the move to acquire ships through its own funds has been widely seen as a turning point, signalling improved financial health and operational confidence.

In his message, the BSC managing director expressed gratitude to the adviser and secretary of the Ministry of Shipping for what he described as dynamic leadership in completing the acquisition process. He also acknowledged the role of the media, saying consistent coverage and cooperation helped keep momentum behind the initiative.

With Banglar Nabojatra now deployed on an international route, BSC expects the vessel to contribute immediately to foreign currency earnings and strengthen the corporation's presence in the global dry bulk market, officials said.