EuroCham urges urgent resumption of Chattogram port operations

The European Union Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (EuroCham) today expressed grave concern over the deadlock at Chattogram port and urged the government to ensure the swift resumption of operations to facilitate normal trade.

In a statement, EuroCham said ongoing disruptions are causing mounting economic losses, jeopardising export performance, and undermining confidence in Bangladesh’s supply chain reliability.

EuroCham Bangladesh comprises renowned European brands and retail giants, including H&M, which source billions of dollars’ worth of goods—particularly apparel—from Bangladesh.

The port, which handles more than 90 percent of the country’s international trade, typically moves between 2,000 and 2,500 export containers daily. However, recent work stoppages have brought operations to a near standstill.

According to the chamber, export goods valued at an estimated $660 million (around Tk 8,000 crore) are currently stuck in about 13,000 containers across port facilities, private depots, and vessels unable to berth or depart.

EuroCham Bangladesh said predictable, uninterrupted, and efficient port operations are essential for safeguarding export performance, protecting millions of jobs, and maintaining Bangladesh’s reputation as a reliable sourcing destination.

The chamber urged all stakeholders to resolve ongoing disputes through constructive dialogue and called for advancing port modernisation to enhance long-term competitiveness.

In the 2024–25 fiscal year, the port handled over 831,000 export container units valued at $42.3 billion.

Textiles and readymade garments account for approximately 80 percent of Bangladesh’s exports, with EU apparel imports from the South Asian country recently exceeding $19.6 billion.