National interest will guide NCT lease decision: Shipping minister

Shipping Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam today (19 April) said the government will take a decision on leasing the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) at Chattogram Port only after ensuring the country's highest interests are protected.

Speaking to reporters at the NCT jetty premises this afternoon, he said a proposal involving DP World to operate container handling activities carries "significant positive potential," but also comes with challenges that require careful assessment.

"Whenever change comes, some stakeholders may face losses while others gain opportunities. We are analysing every aspect thoroughly," he said.

The minister acknowledged recent labour unrest linked to the proposal, noting that workers have legitimate concerns.

"They want assurance on their rights. We are taking that into account. At the same time, we must ensure greater national interest," he said, adding that workers are expected to show flexibility from a sense of patriotism if broader economic gains are clear.

He framed the issue within a competitive global context, pointing to incentives offered by regional peers such as Vietnam, Sri Lanka and India to attract port investment.

"If we want to utilise our full potential, we need to be pragmatic and create conditions that allow us to secure greater benefits," he said.

On the process, the minister said multiple established mechanisms, including open tender, government-to-government (G2G), and public-private partnership (PPP), remain under consideration.

"When a proposal comes through a specific process, we first negotiate within that framework. If it fails to protect our interests, we can move to an open tender," he said.

He stressed that the government is working to reach a decision quickly, with negotiations ongoing and key concerns under review.

"We are accountable to the people. If national interest is not protected, we will have to answer for it," the minister added.

Addressing allegations of past irregularities in port-related projects, the minister said investigations are underway and will continue. "Any misuse of public funds or corruption will be examined, findings will be disclosed, and legal action will follow," he said.

Highlighting the strategic importance of the port, he noted that around 92% of Bangladesh's trade is handled through Chattogram Port. He also pointed out that roughly 40% of containers leave the port empty, signalling untapped export potential.

"Increasing capacity is essential. New terminals and expansions will strengthen our ability to capture more value from trade," he said.

The minister added that while some short-term trade-offs may be necessary, long-term gains would outweigh them if projects are implemented effectively.

"Our goal is maximum utilisation of port capacity while safeguarding national economic priorities," he said.