Laldia terminal construction to begin soon

Construction of the long-awaited Laldia Container Terminal at Chattogram port is set to move forward, with the government scheduled to lay the foundation stone for the $550 million project on August 30, in partnership with Denmark.

Construction is expected to be completed within three years, with the terminal becoming operational in 2029, Shipping Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam announced yesterday after meeting a delegation from Denmark-based APM Terminals in Dhaka.

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APM Terminals, a subsidiary of AP Moller-Maersk Group, will develop and operate the terminal under a public-private partnership (PPP). The company will invest the full amount, equivalent to around Tk 6,700 crore, over the next three years as foreign direct investment.

The minister said the terminal would significantly increase Chattogram port’s container-handling capacity and help strengthen Bangladesh’s trade competitiveness. It will also create jobs, boost trade and contribute to the national economy.

He said the terminal will be developed as a modern and environmentally friendly “green terminal”. It will use advanced technology, including remotely operated cranes, to improve efficiency and safety.

Rabiul sought cooperation from the Danish government and investors in developing Bangladesh’s port infrastructure. He said Bangladesh offers a favourable investment environment and significant opportunities in the sector.

He also stressed the need to modernise port infrastructure to keep pace with economic growth and rising trade, and called for greater use of international expertise and modern technology.

During the meeting, the APM Terminals delegation discussed investment and cooperation in Bangladesh’s port sector, including the use of modern technology and management expertise, as well as international experience, at the Laldia terminal.

Shipping Ministry Secretary Zakaria, the chairman of Chattogram Port Authority and senior ministry officials attended the meeting.