April 25 marks Chattogram Port Day every year, a landmark occasion in Bangladesh’s maritime and economic calendar. This year’s celebration carries special significance as Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) commemorates its 139th anniversary with a historic milestone handling 3.4 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) of containers, breaking a 48-year record.
A Legacy Shaped by History
The history of Chattogram Port dates back centuries, with its importance recognized since the Portuguese era. The formal journey began on April 25, 1888, following the enactment of the Port Commissioners Act in 1887 during British rule.
In its early days, trade operations relied on wooden jetties built along the Karnaphuli River. The first temporary jetties were constructed in 1860, followed by the formation of the Port Commissioners in 1877. Between 1899 and 1910, permanent jetties were developed in collaboration with the Assam Bengal Railway, and rail connectivity was established accelerating trade activities significantly.
The port was declared a major port in 1926. During the Pakistan period, it was transformed into the Port Trust in 1960. After Bangladesh’s independence, it evolved into its current autonomous structure as the Chattogram Port Authority in 1976.
Backbone of the National Economy
Today, approximately 92 percent of Bangladesh’s import and export trade is handled through Chattogram Port, making it the country’s primary economic lifeline. Its strategic geopolitical location has also earned it global recognition as a vital maritime hub in the region.
Driving Modernization and Efficiency
The port has been undergoing rapid modernization through business-friendly policies, digital transformation, automation, infrastructure expansion, and long-term investments.
Advanced technologies such as terminal operating systems, 5G connectivity, e-gate systems, and e-billing and payment platforms have revolutionized service delivery. The ‘CPA Sky’ Port Single Window platform integrates services of all stakeholders, including the National Board of Revenue, ensuring seamless coordination.
The introduction of pre-arrival processing allows customs clearance to be completed before vessels reach the port, significantly reducing turnaround time and boosting operational capacity. Waiting time for vessels has now dropped to nearly zero.
Record-Breaking Performance
In the 2024–25 fiscal year and the calendar year 2025, the port handled 3.4 million TEUs, setting a new benchmark in its operational history. This achievement reflects improved efficiency, strong management, and continuous technological upgrades. As a result, logistics costs have also been reduced substantially.
Security and Green Initiatives
Chattogram Port has achieved ‘zero observation’ status under the ISPS Code, ensuring compliance with global security standards.
At the same time, in line with directives from the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the port has embarked on a ‘Green Port’ initiative, aiming to ensure environmental sustainability and international compliance.
Chattogram port authority envisions transforming Chattogram Port into a world-class, safe, and competitive regional logistics hub. The introduction of direct shipping routes to Europe and North America is expected to further reduce costs and enhance Bangladesh’s export competitiveness in global markets.
Celebrating the Milestone
On the occasion of the 139th anniversary, CPA Chairman Rear Admiral S M Moniruzzaman extended greetings to all officials and employees of the port.
With its legacy, modernization, and continued growth, Chattogram Port stands as a symbol of Bangladesh’s economic progress—poised to lead the nation to even greater heights in the years ahead.
