Freight transport in Chattogram has dropped sharply due to a fuel shortage, with the number of operating trucks, lorries, and covered vans falling below 8,000—a 30 percent decline from the usual 13,000 vehicles. At the same time, transport fares have risen by 20 to 40 percent, severely affecting importers and exporters who now face difficulties in maintaining regular supply chains. The shortage has also led to fears of an artificial market crisis.

Truck drivers and transport offices report that fuel scarcity has reduced vehicle availability, forcing them to pay significantly higher rental rates. For example, the cost of sending an open truck from Chattogram to Dhaka has increased from about Tk 24,000–25,000 to Tk 33,000–35,000, while covered van and container lorry rates have also surged. Drivers describe long waits at fuel stations, limited fuel allocations, and growing safety concerns.

Industry representatives warn that if fuel supply to port-based transport is not prioritized, Chattogram Port’s operations and the national economy could face serious disruption. Business leaders allege that some groups are exploiting the crisis to manipulate the supply chain, though consumer markets have not yet shown major instability.