The Teknaf land port, a key import-export hub in Bangladesh’s Cox’s Bazar, has remained inactive for ten months due to internal unrest in neighboring Myanmar. Cross-border trade through the Naf River has been suspended, leaving local traders and importers in severe financial distress. Thousands of port workers have lost their jobs and are struggling to survive without income. Stakeholders are waiting for effective government action to restore operations at the port.

According to port business associations, millions of taka remain stuck with Myanmar traders, and large quantities of goods stored in warehouses are rotting. The general secretary of the Teknaf C&F Agents Association said the prolonged closure has caused extreme financial strain, making it difficult to pay bank installments, office rent, and staff salaries. Workers dependent on port activities have fallen into debt and are unable to support their families.

The government is also losing significant revenue, as imports of timber, dried fish, ginger, and onions have stopped. The disruption began after Myanmar’s Rakhine State came under control of the Arakan Army, halting vessel movement on the Naf River. No timeline has been announced for resuming trade, though business groups believe diplomatic efforts could help reopen the port.