Chattogram Port, the busiest seaport in Bangladesh, is facing a critical issue with unclaimed import containers, leading to significant revenue loss and operational inefficiencies. With approximately 9,644 containers left unattended, occupying 18% of the port’s capacity, authorities are looking for solutions to streamline the auction process and clear the backlog.
Key Issues and Data Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Unclaimed Goods | 200,000 tonnes of imported goods in 9,644 containers. |
| Port Capacity Occupied | Unclaimed containers occupy 18% of Chattogram port’s space. |
| Revenue Loss | Outstanding container rent amounts to around Tk 150 crore. |
| Major Causes of Abandonment | – Drop in local market prices. – Lack of proper shipping documents. – Importers unwilling to pay fines for irregularities. |
| Composition of Abandoned Containers | – 383 containers with perishable goods (e.g., fruits). – 357 containers with hazardous items (e.g., chemicals). – Remaining containers hold non-perishables like cosmetics, automobiles, and electronics. |
| Auction Status | Only Tk 380.83 crore worth of goods sold in 148 auctions over 5 years, while nearly Tk 8,000 crore worth of goods remain stranded. |
| Customs Law | Importers must claim goods within 15 days; otherwise, goods are eligible for auction. |
Challenges & Proposed Solutions
- Delays in the Auction Process:
- Issue: Slow bureaucratic procedures lead to goods deteriorating, wasting valuable foreign currency.
- Solution: Amend auction laws to allow faster disposal of unclaimed items.
- Insufficient Auction Management:
- Issue: Limited manpower has led to inefficient clearance.
- Solution: Assign 50 additional customs officials to expedite the auction process.
- Low Auction Participation:
- Issue: Reserve values set too high discourage bidders.
- Solution: Consider relaxing reserve value requirements in the first round of auctions.
- Need for Modernized Auctioning:
- Issue: Traditional auction methods slow down clearance.
- Solution: Introduce online and spot auctions to attract more bidders.
Future Outlook
Authorities recognize the need to reform the auction process to prevent further congestion and revenue loss. Streamlining auctions, improving policy frameworks, and utilizing digital platforms are essential steps in ensuring that Chattogram Port remains efficient and competitive. If these measures are successfully implemented, the port can reclaim lost revenue and optimize its operational capacity.
Glottis Limited 
Leave a comment