Chittagong Port handled a record 3.4 million TEU in 2025, up four per cent year on year, reports Dhaka's Bonik Barta.

Official data show the port moved 3,402,762 TEU by December 30, surpassing the 2024 record of 3,275,627 TEU. Cargo volumes across all categories rose to 137.8 million tonnes, an 11 per cent increase, driven by bulk cargo such as raw materials, fuel oil and consumer goods.



Port Director Omar Faruk said the milestone was reached a day before year-end, with December 31 adding another 8,000 TEU. He noted vessel berthing time has fallen to virtually zero, reducing idle time and saving foreign exchange.



Despite the record, container volumes fell for four consecutive months from August to November. Exports dropped from 88,408 TEU in August to 71,117 TEU in October, while imports fell from 169,983 TEU in August to 146,246 TEU in October.



Traders cited weaker Christmas demand, a slump in domestic industrial sales, and tariff issues as factors behind the decline. Salim Rahman of KDS Group warned that looming LDC graduation poses further challenges for exporters.



Importers pointed to falling steel and cement sales, reluctance to take risks, and difficulties opening letters of credit due to dollar shortages. Crown Cement�� Alamgir Kabir said foreign banks often demand additional confirmation of LCs, creating structural hurdles that continue to stifle import activity.