The government has finalized its decision to lease the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) of Chattogram Port to foreign operator DP World. The agreement is expected to be signed in Dhaka today, Sunday, in the presence of senior government and ministerial officials. However, port authorities claim they have not been officially informed about the deal, which is being managed by the Public-Private Partnership Authority. Meanwhile, BNP-backed port workers and employees continue strikes and protests opposing the foreign operator’s appointment.

According to port sources, the handover of NCT to DP World may be completed before the February 12 national election. Workers argue that leasing the profitable terminal to a foreign company could cost the state around two thousand crore taka annually and threaten national security. The port authority counters that DP World’s advanced technology will enhance operational capacity while preserving national interests through lease revenues.

In response to ongoing strikes, the port authority has transferred four employees and formed a committee to identify those violating institutional discipline and assess related losses.