Mongla Port, Bangladesh’s second-largest seaport and a vital hub for southwest region’s economy, is witnessing a significant rise in foreign ship arrivals and reconditioned car imports despite a global economic slowdown.
The port has not only maintained steady growth but has also achieved new records in cargo handling and revenue generation, solidifying its position as a key player in the country’s trade and logistics network.
Mongla Port continues to demonstrate remarkable growth in operational activities during the current fiscal year, with a notable increase in number of foreign ships, container traffic and reconditioned vehicle imports.
According to port authorities, from July, 2024 to May 13, 2025, a total of 725 foreign vessels docked at the port. Among them, 22 ships brought in 10,374 reconditioned cars; accounting for 60% of all such imports into Bangladesh.
The port also handled 9.33 million metric tons of cargo during this period, reflecting a strong upward trend across all operational indicators. This growth is attributed to increased imports of machinery for various ongoing mega infrastructure projects, which have significantly contributed to government revenue.
Md Makruzzaman, Deputy Director (Public Relations) of Mongla Port Authority, noted the rising activity at the port, including recent arrival of Indonesian-flagged container ship MV Ship SELATAN DAMAI. The 115.49-meter-long vessel, with a draft of 7.25 meters, is currently unloading 324 TEUs of cargo at Jetty No. 5.
Additionally, a Russian-flagged ship, MV FESCO Olga, measuring 138.1 meters in length with a 7.4-meter draft, is stationed at Jetty No. 6, unloading 2,195 metric tons of machinery.
Rear Admiral Md Shahin Rahman, Chairman of Mongla Port Authority, emphasized the importance of maintaining navigability in port’s channels. He stated that the recent completion of dredging in outer bar now allows larger vessels to berth directly at the jetties. Further expansion is expected once inner bar dredging is completed, enabling even more ships to access the port.
To support its ongoing development, Mongla Port Authority has recently signed a Tk 4,000 crore agreement with Chinese government for various infrastructure projects. Once implemented, these initiatives will significantly enhance the port’s capacity and operational efficiency.
With all indicators pointing upward, Mongla Port is steadily cementing its role as a dynamic and resilient gateway for trade in Bangladesh.
SMS/SH
