Reconditioned Car Imports Surge Through Mongla Port

Mongla Port (Khulna), Jan 9, 2025 : The import of reconditioned vehicles through Mongla Port has witnessed a significant increase, as importers are increasingly favoring the seaport for automobile shipments. Currently, approximately 70 percent of the imported vehicles are being delivered through this port, reflecting its growing importance in the country’s trade landscape.

In the last fiscal year, Mongla Port achieved a milestone by handling 15,340 vehicles, marking a new era in revenue generation. In the fiscal year 2021-22, the port set a record with the import of 20,608 vehicles, the highest ever in its history.

Abdul Haque, President of the Bangladesh Reconditioned Vehicles Importers and Dealers Association (BARVIDA), highlighted the pivotal role of the Padma Bridge in transforming the trade environment in the southern region. “The construction of Padma Bridge has opened new opportunities for businesses, especially in the automobile sector,” he said.

Haque pointed out that faster vehicle clearance and sufficient storage facilities at Mongla Port are key reasons for its preference among importers. Enhanced security measures at the port have eliminated issues like theft of vehicle parts, further boosting importer confidence.

“The Padma Bridge has drastically reduced the travel time for vehicles to reach Dhaka. The journey now takes half the time compared to earlier, making the port a more viable option for importers,” he added.

Increased Efficiency and Facilities at Mongla Port

Muhammad Makruzzaman, Deputy Director of Mongla Port Authority (MPA), stated that various incentives, faster unloading, and enhanced infrastructure have been instrumental in attracting importers. The port has introduced improved sheds and yards for storing vehicles, alongside 24/7 patrols and CCTV monitoring for security.

“Importers are choosing Mongla Port as it offers substantial savings in both time and cost,” Makruzzaman said.

In the first six months of the current fiscal year (2024-25), the port has seen the arrival of 413 commercial ships, handled 10,386 TEUs of containers, and imported 5,637 vehicles through 10 vehicle-carrying ships. Additionally, the port managed the import and export of 5,284,471 tonnes of goods, earning Taka 210 crore in revenues.

Makruzzaman also emphasized improvements in navigation, with 69 navigation buoys installed for seamless ship movement. The port now accommodates up to 47 ships simultaneously across jetties, mooring buoys, and anchorages.

Strategic Advantage for Importers

BARVIDA President Abdul Haque explained that the shorter distance from Mongla Port to Dhaka (180 km) compared to Chittagong Port (260 km) provides importers with a logistical edge. This has significantly boosted the popularity of Mongla Port among vehicle importers.

MPA Chairman Rear Admiral Shaheen Rahman added that mega projects undertaken at Mongla Port have created an exporter- and importer-friendly environment. Modern facilities, including transit sheds, warehouses, a container yard, reefer plug points, a car parking yard, and advanced handling equipment, make the port highly efficient.

With these developments, Mongla Port is positioned as a strategic hub for vehicle imports, reflecting its vital role in supporting the country’s economic growth.

(Reported by CorporateNews24 / Jubair)