Ctg port sees drop in export container handling in September
RMG exporters say global economic slowdown dampens RMG demand
Chattogram Port, the country's premier maritime gateway, has reported a decrease in export container handling in September compared to August.
According to port statistics, 75,603 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) of export containers were handled in September, down from 78,146 TEUs in August. Despite the decline in export container handling, there was an increase in import container handling.
In September, 117,402 TEUs of import container handling took place. In August, the figure was 114,708 TEUs.
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Officials say 80% of the goods exported through the port are ready-made garments. In addition, frozen food, footwear, jute products, and other goods are also exported.
RMG exporters say the global economic slowdown has led to a decrease in demand for the ready-made garment industry worldwide. Due to inflation in various countries, they report that product prices have dropped.
On the other hand, production costs in the industry have increased several times, which has impacted exports, say the RMG exporters.
Exports have significantly declined in nearly all countries, including the two largest markets for the ready-made garment sector, they say.
BGMEA Vice President Rakibul Alam Chowdhury told TBS that there is instability in the garment industry following changes in the political landscape.
"Due to disruptions in production, many buyers have already started to leave our country, and purchase orders are being cancelled. This has hurt exports, resulting in a decrease in export container handling," he said.
According to the port data, the Chattogram port handled 17,834 TEUs more export containers and 10,897 TEUs more import containers in September 2024 compared to September 2023.
