Laldia container terminal deal strategically valuable for Bangladesh: Speakers
However, they also raised concerns over the revenue-sharing model and possible siltation challenges for high-draft ships
Speakers at a programme today (22 November) in Dhaka praised the recent agreement between the Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) and Danish APM Terminals for the development and operation of the Laldia Container Terminal (LCT), calling it strategically valuable and beneficial for Bangladesh.
The discussion, moderated by Fahim Mashroor of Voice for Reform, highlighted potential economic gains from improved port operations, higher cargo-handling efficiency, and enhanced international connectivity.
However, participants also raised concerns over the revenue-sharing model and possible siltation challenges for high-draft ships. Shams Mahmud, president of the Bangladesh-Thai Chamber of Commerce & Industry, said the deal, signed by the interim government, would have been difficult under a political administration, emphasising the need for careful and transparent management to ensure long-term stability.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
Md Anam Chowdhury, president of the Bangladesh Merchant Marine Officers' Association, warned of operational risks due to siltation, while Syed Hasibuddin Hossain of the Bangladesh State Reform Movement called for more transparency, noting past corruption and mismanagement in similar projects.
The programme also brought together business leaders and politicians, including Alauddin Mohammad of NCP, Kamrul Islam of Seaco Group, Rafi Salman Rifat of UP Bangladesh, Nasrin Sohana Mili of AB Party, Ahmed Muksit of Swosti Software, and M Saidur Rahman, alongside Shams Mahmud, Syed Hasibuddin Hossain, and Md Anam Chowdhury, who offered their insights on the LCT agreement.
