More than 2 years have lapsed since
Bangladesh and Thailand signed a Memorandum of Understanding to launch a direct
coastal shipping services between Chittagong and Ranong Ports but is yet to
materiize due to bureaucratic hurdles including clearance from the Bangladesh
foreign ministry.
EXIM trade in
both Bangladesh and Thailand were upbeat about the move as it would save time
and cost. . . But much
to their frustration the initiative has yet to be implemented.
Chattogram Port Authority sources were quoted
by media reports saying that the issue of direct shipping between the two ports
is pending with Bangladesh foreign affairs ministry. Direct shipping through
the Chattogram-Ranong route can be launched after the Bangladesh’s foreign
ministry’s final nod, said sources at the Chattogram Port Authority. The facility will reduce the transit time
between the two ports from 10 days to three days, and cut shipping cost by
around 30 per cent. According to the Bangladesh Shipping Agents’
Association, Bangladeshi goods are currently transported to Thailand through
transshipment ports such as Singapore, Port Kelang in Malaysia, and Colombo in
Sri Lanka. At present, the shipping cost from Chattogram to Ranong port is 700
US dollars per container because of the transshipment cost..
Traders have expressed their disappointment
over not launching direct shipping between the two countries after signing the
MoU, saying the faster the goods can be transported on this route, the more the
Bangladesh businesses will benefit. Launching direct shipping services between
Chattogram and Ranong will create significant trade potential. Direct
transportation of goods by ships has already been started with various European
countries, which has reduced time and import cost.. Local freight companies are
capable of operating ships on the Chattogram-Ranong route, said people involved
in this sector.
Launching direct
shipping between Chattogram and Ranong ports will create a new market for
shippers according to EXIM trade. Ships with a 7-metre draught and a capacity of 10,000
tons or 700 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) should be operated on the
route. Local private companies can easily operate ships on this route.
Bangladesh exports jute products to Thailand, while imports pulses, gypsum,
tyres, fruits, dry fruits, footwear items, readymade garments from that
country.