AMBREY INSIGHT >HEIGHTENED OPERATIONAL & SECURITY RISKS AT CHATTOGRAM PORT
Date issued: 21 November 2025
“Ambrey advises that intermittent disruption at Chattogram Port is likely through mid-December; operators should build schedule buffers, activate contingency plans, maintain heightened anchorage security, and stay closely aligned with agents and charterers for timely, actionable updates.”
Source: This document has been approved for distribution by Ambrey Analytics Ltd.
EVENT
Ambrey has observed an escalation in operational and security risks to commercial vessels calling at, or transiting in the vicinity of, Chattogram Port. This is being driven by ongoing labour unrest, including recent disputes over increased port tariffs and entry fees, and contentious plans to introduce long-term foreign operators at key container terminals.
In particular, on or around 17 November 2025, the Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) signed a 30-year agreement with APM Terminals/Maersk to operate the new Laldia Container Terminal. A parallel agreement under which DP World is expected to assume control of the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) remains in preparation. While ownership of the infrastructure will remain with the state, operational control and a significant share of terminal revenues will transfer to these operators.
In response, port labour coalitions under the Sramik Karmachari Oikya Parishad (SKOP) and allied groups have escalated from limited stoppages to wider measures including strikes, hunger strikes, sit-ins and torchlight marches. The Chattogram Metropolitan Police have imposed a ban on public gatherings in and around the port area until 14 December, while unions have announced a joint meeting on 22 November at which they may call for wider blockades or a general strike. Preparations to sign the DP World–NCT agreement around mid-December constitute an additional potential trigger for renewed disruption. These dates are likely to be focal points for further labour action and associated delays.
CONTEXT
Chattogram Port handles the majority of Bangladesh’s seaborne trade and is widely regarded as a critical national asset and strategic gateway. Over the past year, the port has repeatedly experienced labour-related business interruption, including a strike by the Bangladesh Boat Workers Federation in December 2024 that left around…