Bangladesh port workers threaten shutdown over deal

Bangladesh was scheduled to sign a 15-year concession agreement Thursday with Dubai-based DP World to operate Chattogram Port’s New Mooring Container Terminal and its overflow container yard, despite workers’ threats to shut down port operations.

A signing ceremony was set for 3 p.m. in Dhaka, according to an invitation cited by The Business Standard.

Workers staged a torch procession Wednesday and announced another protest Thursday, demanding government discussions before any agreement is finalized.

Protest coordinator Ibrahim Khokon warned that operations would stop if authorities signed.

A cabinet committee approved draft terms in principle Oct. 1. DP World would upgrade, operate, and maintain Bangladesh’s busiest container terminal, which handled about 44% of Chattogram Port’s container volume in 2025.

Port authority officials did not respond to requests for comment.