Shipping lines seek phased tariff hike at Chattogram port
In a letter dated 9 October 2025, BCSA Chairman Harun-Ur-Rashid appealed to the Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) and the Ministry of Shipping to adopt a gradual adjustment plan and defer the implementation deadline to 30 June 2026.
The Bangladesh Container Shipping Association (BCSA) has urged the authorities to roll out the recent tariff hike at Chattogram Port in phases, warning that the abrupt increase could weaken Bangladesh's export competitiveness and push cargo to regional ports.
In a letter dated 9 October 2025, BCSA Chairman Harun-Ur-Rashid appealed to the Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) and the Ministry of Shipping to adopt a gradual adjustment plan and defer the implementation deadline to 30 June 2026.
The call came after the CPA issued a new tariff directive on 14 September 2025, which took effect on 15 October following a short delay. The revised charges include increases of up to 50% on vessel-related fees such as tug hire. BCSA termed the move "unjustified" and said it could undermine the stability of the country's maritime trade.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
The association said a phased approach would better balance the port's revenue needs with the long-term sustainability of shipping operations. It also emphasized that major tariff changes should be discussed with stakeholders beforehand to avoid sudden shocks to the industry.
In the letter, BCSA pointed out that the abrupt increase would disrupt fixed-rate freight contracts, damage Bangladesh's reputation in global trade, and make its port less competitive compared to regional hubs. The group stressed that a predictable and transparent tariff structure is essential to maintain confidence among international carriers and exporters.
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) have backed the appeal, saying the hike would raise operational costs for exporters who are already struggling with volatile global demand.
BCSA warned that the tariff surge could prove detrimental to the competitiveness of Bangladeshi goods in the global market and stressed that consistent policies were crucial to preserving Chattogram Port's position as the country's primary trade gateway.
