Bangladesh Dock Workers Strike Over Foreign Takeover Plans at Chattogram Port

Dock workers in Bangladesh have intensified their strike at the country’s largest port, Chattogram, in protest against the interim government’s plan to lease key port terminals to foreign companies.

The strike, which began with a small group in October, has now expanded to around 200 workers at the port — Bangladesh’s main trade gateway and a crucial hub in the global garment supply chain.

Chattogram Port Authority Chairman S. M. Moniruzzaman told AFP that bringing in international operators would boost foreign investment and improve operational efficiency.

Bangladesh, the world’s second-largest exporter of garments, depends heavily on Chattogram Port — formerly known as Chittagong — located on the Bay of Bengal, for most of its import and export activities.

According to state-run BSS, UAE-based DP World has shown interest in managing the New Mooring Container Terminal, while Denmark’s A.P. Moller-Maersk is reportedly eyeing the Laldia Container Terminal on the city’s outskirts.

In October, Mohammed Yousuf, senior secretary of the Ministry of Shipping, said that “agreements are expected to be signed by December” under the interim administration.

The interim government took power after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s administration during a mass uprising in August 2024. Elections are expected in February 2025.

However, the proposed leases have sparked discontent among local dockworkers.

“We don’t know whether the new authority will retain us or restructure the entire system,” said Nur Uddin, 55, one of the striking workers.
“Do they even have the mandate? They are an interim government,” added Iliyas Bhuiyan, another docker.

Industry groups are divided over the issue. Supporters believe foreign expertise will help modernize the port.

“We need a globally reputed operator to expand capacity,” said Kabir Ahmed, president of the Bangladesh Freight Forwarders Association (BAFFA).
“It will enhance efficiency, increase revenue, and strengthen the country’s global reputation.”

But critics argue that leasing the facilities would undermine national control.

“It makes no sense to lease terminals we developed and operated for the last 40 years,” said Azam J. Chowdhury, chairman of the Bangladesh Ocean Going Ship Owners’ Association (BOGSOA).

Source: AFP