A surge in fuel prices has prompted container depots in Chittagong to raise handling charges by 8.5%, adding fresh cost pressure on Bangladesh’s trade and logistics sector.
Depot operators said the tariff increase was necessary to offset higher diesel and transport expenses that have significantly increased operating costs across cargo handling, yard equipment, and inland container movement.
Chittagong, the country’s main maritime gateway, handles the majority of Bangladesh’s containerized imports and exports, making depot pricing a key factor for shippers, freight forwarders, and exporters.
Industry stakeholders warn that the higher handling charges could raise logistics costs for garment exporters, importers of raw materials, and domestic manufacturers already dealing with currency pressure and global demand uncertainty.
Traders say the increase may eventually be passed through the supply chain unless fuel costs ease or productivity gains help absorb part of the added expense. The move underscores how energy price volatility continues to affect regional port and logistics operations.
