DP World to Operate Chittagong Port’s New Mooring Container Terminal Under 15-Year Agreement
A landmark Public-Private Partnership between Bangladesh's Chittagong Port Authority and DP World will enhance the nation's maritime infrastructure and strengthen its position in global supply chains.
The Chittagong Port Authority and DP World have formalised a significant strategic partnership through a 15-year concession agreement governing the operation and maintenance of the New Mooring Container Terminal and its associated Overflow Container Yard. The accord, executed within a Public-Private Partnership framework, represents a substantial commitment to modernising Bangladesh’s port infrastructure and amplifying its role within international trade networks.
The agreement was formalised by Rear Admiral S. M. Moniruzzaman, Chairman of the Chittagong Port Authority, and Essa Kazim, Executive Chairman of DP World, with the presence of Sheikh Rabiul Alam, Minister of Shipping of Bangladesh, and other senior government and business officials. Under the arrangement, ownership of the New Mooring Container Terminal remains with the Chittagong Port Authority whilst DP World assumes operational and maintenance responsibilities.
This collaboration builds upon the 2019 Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of Dubai and Bangladesh’s Public-Private Partnership Authority, reflecting both nations’ commitment to advancing infrastructure development through strategic partnerships. The initiative is designed to leverage DP World’s extensive global expertise, technological capabilities and operational sophistication to enhance terminal performance and supply chain efficiency.
The development programme encompasses comprehensive upgrades to civil infrastructure and equipment, implementation of advanced digital solutions, and operational refinements targeting improved cargo handling capacity. DP World will prioritise berth planning optimisation, yard management, equipment utilisation, preventive maintenance protocols, and integrated safety and sustainability measures in collaboration with port authorities.
Rear Admiral Moniruzzaman emphasised the partnership’s significance for Bangladesh’s maritime development, noting that the agreement strengthens the nation’s trade infrastructure whilst reinforcing connectivity with international markets. Essa Kazim highlighted DP World’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s emergence as an increasingly significant trading and manufacturing economy, positioning the terminal within the company’s extensive global network of over 60 ports and terminals handling approximately 10 per cent of worldwide container traffic.
The partnership encompasses workforce development initiatives and skills enhancement programmes, creating opportunities for local workers and businesses to engage more actively within regional and global supply chains. These measures reflect a shared commitment to building sustainable economic benefits across Bangladesh’s port sector and supporting domestic industry expansion.
Source: WAM