Newsletter: About Chittagong(Chattogram) Port

RE: CHITTAGONG (CHATTOGRAM) PORT SITUATION
Date: 01 August 2024
Dear Valued Partners,
Due to recent disruptions in Chittagong, shipments at the port were suspended for five days because
of a nationwide internet outage and a curfew imposed to address student protests related to job
quota reforms. These protests led to clashes with police, vehicle fires, and highway blockades, which
disrupted cargo movement. Factories were forced to shut down, and the presence of military forces
caused widespread concern. Shipments resumed on July 23 following a partial restoration of the
internet and a partial lifting of the curfew.
Chittagong port is currently congested with nearly 40,000 TEU of import containers. Importers are
facing increased demurrage charges after the initial four free days. Businesses have requested a
waiver of these charges, and the junior shipping minister has indicated that support may be available
if applications are submitted. The port is operating at 80% capacity, and only 3,500 TEU have been
delivered daily since the restoration of internet services.
The shipping ministry has announced a waiver of seven days of demurrage charges for containers
arriving at Chattogram port between July 16 and August 5. To benefit from this waiver, importers
must collect their cargo by August 14.
Please be aware that any unforeseen charges arising at Chittagong port will likely be passed on to
customers. We are monitoring the situation closely with our agents and will provide updates as soon
as new information becomes available.
Yours Sincerely,
Management of Penanshin Shipping