Despite political unrest, severe flooding, and a customs officers’ strike, the Chittagong Port set a new record in the 2024–25 fiscal year by handling 3.296 million containers—128,000 more than the previous year. Cargo volume also rose to 130 million metric tons, up from 123.2 million metric tons in 2023–24, with 106 additional cargo ships arriving compared to the previous year.

According to Port Secretary Mohammad Omar Faruk, this achievement was made possible through the dedication of workers and cooperation from users of the port. Alongside the port, 21 private off-docks also contributed significantly, recording a 14.72% growth in export container handling (777,000 units) and a 3.71% rise in imports (265,000 units).

Meanwhile, Chittagong Customs House collected BDT 75,432 crore in revenue—slightly short of its BDT 80,402 crore target. Revenue collection suffered in the final months due to a shutdown by customs officials, which led to delays and the holding of numerous containers at the port. Importers have since voiced concerns about being charged up to four times the usual storage fees due to these delays.

BICDA Secretary General Ruhul Amin Sikder noted that despite the year’s political turmoil, improvements in reserve levels and overall conditions helped businesses regain strength. However, industry representatives, such as SM Saiful Islam of the Chittagong Customs Agents Association, urged the port authority to reconsider excessive charges—especially for containers affected during the customs strike.