On October 15, 2025, the Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) implemented a substantial increase in port usage charges, marking the first comprehensive tariff revision in nearly four decades. The new structure raises fees by an average of 41%, impacting 23 service categories, including container handling, vessel waiting charges, and truck entry fees. For instance, the cost for loading and unloading containers has surged from $43.40 to $68.00, while the average container handling cost per twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) has risen from Tk11,849 to Tk16,243 .
Industry Response and Legal Challenges
The tariff hike has been met with strong opposition from various stakeholders. The Bangladesh Maritime Law Society (BMLS) issued a legal notice to the government and CPA, deeming the new tariffs “illegal, arbitrary, and inconsistent with the Port Act.” They demanded the immediate withdrawal of the new rates and the formation of a transparent, multi-stakeholder review committee
Additionally, the Bangladesh Container Shipping Association (BCSA) filed a writ petition with the High Court, questioning the legality of the tariff hike. The court has issued a rule asking the Ministry of Shipping and the CPA to explain why the new tariff schedule should not be declared illegal and beyond legal authority
Economic Implications
Business leaders warn that the abrupt tariff increase could adversely affect Bangladesh’s export competitiveness and lead to higher costs for consumers. The Bangladesh Covered Van, Truck and Prime Mover Goods Transport Owners Association expressed concerns over the near fourfold increase in truck entry fees, emphasizing the lack of consultation before implementing such changes
Global Impact
The tariff hike has also attracted international attention. Shipping giant Maersk announced a peak season surcharge of $125 per container on shipments to Bangladesh, effective November 1. This additional cost is expected to further strain exporters already grappling with the recent tariff increases
Conclusion
The implementation of the new tariffs at Chattogram Port has sparked significant debate among industry stakeholders, legal experts, and international partners. While the CPA asserts the necessity of the hike for infrastructure development and service improvement, the lack of prior consultation and the abrupt nature of the changes have raised concerns about their broader economic impact. As legal proceedings unfold and discussions continue, the future of Bangladesh’s primary maritime gateway remains a critical issue for the nation’s trade and economic stability.
Source:
- The Business Standard, “Ctg Port to enforce increased tariffs from 15 Oct amid businesses’ concerns,” published on October 1, 2025.
- The Business Standard, “Chattogram Port enforces new tariff despite strong opposition from stakeholders,” published on October 15, 2025.
- The Business Standard, “BMLS legal notice challenges new Chattogram Port tariff as unlawful,” published on October 15, 2025.
- The Business Standard, “HC issues rule on legality of Ctg port tariff hike, directs authorities to dispose container shipping’s plea within 15 days,” published on October 22, 2025.
- The Business Standard, “Maersk imposes surcharge on Bangladesh shipments after tariff hike at Ctg port,” published on October 27, 2025.