Ctg port launches 'CPA Sky' to bring all port, customs services under single digital platform

Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) today launched the Port Single Window system, branded CPA Sky, aiming to bring all export-import, customs and port-related services under a single, integrated digital platform.

CPA Chairman Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman announced the launch at a press briefing held at the Bandar Bhaban boardroom in the afternoon (10 February).

Speaking at the briefing, he said the platform would integrate 100% of services involving the port, the National Board of Revenue (NBR) and customs, covering cargo handling, delivery, documentation and payments.

Photo: Courtesy

"Everything related to export, import and delivery will be on one platform," he said, describing CPA Sky as a clear move away from partial and paper-based automation.

To improve oversight and efficiency, the port authority plans to introduce artificial intelligence and smart cameras to digitally track containers and cargo movement across the port in real time. Supporting systems, including radio-based technologies, will be rolled out gradually, he added.

Moniruzzaman acknowledged long-standing complaints from C&F agents that existing automation often remains limited to paperwork, forcing them to physically submit documents despite online processes. CPA Sky, he said, is designed to eliminate that gap and ensure full automation in practice.

"This will happen. There is no reason for it not to," he said, recalling similar resistance when the electronic gate-pass system was introduced. "Initially, it was difficult. Now everyone is used to it. Even a few hours of system disruption brings truck movement to a halt. That shows how dependent operations have become on automation."

He said digitisation has already delivered visible gains. Since the introduction of e-ticketing, the average number of trucks entering the port daily has increased sharply, while truck turnaround time has dropped by around 90 minutes, saving nearly one and a half hours per trip. He added that turnaround time would fall further once full automation is in place.

Under CPA Sky, users will be able to carry out IGM and EGM corrections, amendments and HS code adjustments digitally, without visiting multiple offices. "We are bringing all services to one place," the chairman said, adding that more user-friendly features would be introduced over time.

Addressing concerns over job losses, Moniruzzaman ruled out any reduction in manpower. "There is no question of cutting jobs," he said. "The benefit is time saved, faster delivery and much higher efficiency." He claimed productivity could increase severalfold compared to manual systems.

On digital payments, he said online billing and settlement systems are now operating smoothly, with both local and foreign banks seeking integration with the port's real-time settlement framework. For now, two banks—one local and one foreign—have been integrated to ensure stability before wider rollout.

Calling the launch of CPA Sky a milestone, the CPA chairman said the platform would benefit exporters and importers for decades. "This journey starts today. The impact will be felt over the next 50 to 100 years," he said, adding that the broader gains would extend across the economy.

High officials of CPA, including Commodore Ahamed Amin Abdullah, Member (Harbour and Marine), Md Mahbub Alam Talukder, Member (Finance), Commodore Md. Mazharul Islam Jewel, Member (Engineering) and Omar Faruk, Director (Admin), were present at the event.

Previously, CPA used several digital tools that operated in isolation. CPA Sky brings them together through a unified platform featuring single sign-on access (AIS 2.0), real-time vessel tracking through digital radar and automated systems, streamlined cargo clearance, seamless data sharing with NBR, banks and other agencies, and improved transparency and accountability across port operations.