B Mirror Report: The Chittagong Port Authority has begun enforcing a new tariff structure across all service sectors of the port from the early hours of Wednesday, despite strong opposition from the trading community.
The updated tariff, officially published in a government gazette on September 14, reflects an average increase of 41 percent across various port services — the most significant adjustment since 1986, according to port officials. The changes came into effect at 12:01 AM on Wednesday.
Among the most affected sectors is container handling, with a review of the port’s audited accounts for the 2023–24 fiscal year revealing that an additional average fee of $39 (Tk 4,395) is now being charged for each 20-foot container.
While a substantial portion of the increased charges will be levied on shipping lines, a portion of the burden will ultimately fall on importers and exporters. Industry insiders expect these costs to trickle down the supply chain, pushing up the prices of both raw materials and finished goods.
In defense of the decision, the Ministry of Shipping said the port’s tariffs had remained largely unchanged for nearly four decades. Although minor adjustments were made in five service categories during 2007–08, the new rates, authorities argue, are still competitive compared to other international ports.
Shipping Advisor Sakhawat Hossain, during a recent visit to the port, told reporters that the hike came after consultations with trade representatives and emphasized that the revised rates remain relatively low by global standards.
However, business leaders have expressed grave concerns over the economic impact of the new rates. Traders warn that the increased costs will strain manufacturing, import-export operations, and ultimately burden consumers with higher prices.
“The additional toll will hit the manufacturing sector hard, especially in terms of raw materials and consumer goods,” said a spokesperson for a major trading body. “Export-oriented industries will face double charges — once during shipping and again at destination points.”
Former president of the Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Amir Humayun Mahmud Chowdhury, echoed those concerns saying: “Even if traders absorb the cost initially, the effect will be felt by the consumers. They will ultimately bear the brunt of this increase.”
The new tariff comes at a time when businesses are already grappling with inflation and currency volatility, raising fears of a further squeeze on both domestic consumption and export competitiveness.
