Operations at Chattogram Port have resumed after a six-day disruption, but congestion, container backlogs, and rising tensions between workers and authorities continue to threaten stability.
More than 14,000 export containers remain stuck at ports and inland depots, while vessel congestion at the outer anchorage is causing heavy demurrage costs. Industry leaders warn that missed shipping schedules could damage Bangladesh’s trade credibility and delay exports to Europe and North America.
The situation has escalated further after the Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) sought an Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) probe and travel ban against 15 protesting employees, prompting strong backlash from labour groups. Workers have warned of a renewed strike if what they call “harassment” is not withdrawn immediately.
Port officials say normal operations may take several days to restore, while stakeholders caution that prolonged instability could disrupt supply chains for months.
