Global maritime trade is facing renewed instability as the Middle East war and a severe fuel crisis disrupt shipping routes. Main line operators are preparing to raise freight charges again from April 1, potentially increasing Bangladesh’s import and export costs. Container rates to Europe have already risen sharply, while connections on Middle East routes have nearly collapsed, with limited vessels charging several times higher rates. Freight for a 40-foot container from Chattogram to Europe has climbed from about $1,600–$1,700 in February to around $2,400 in March.
Shipping companies cite rising global fuel prices and war risks as reasons for the new rate adjustments, with expectations of a further 25–30 percent increase in April. Industry leaders warn that the surge will directly affect Bangladesh’s export sector, particularly the ready-made garment industry, as existing orders were priced under earlier freight structures. Freight forwarders also report a 20 percent rise in bulk cargo rates and growing risks in the Red Sea and Hormuz Strait.
Experts urge the government to closely monitor shipping line pricing and take measures to mitigate the impact on trade and the broader economy.
সোহাগ কুমার বিশ্বাস, চট্টগ্রাম প্রকাশ : ৩১ মার্চ ২০২৬, ১০: ৫৯আপডেট : ৩১ মার্চ ২০২৬, ১১: ১৩ মধ্যপ্রাচ্যের যুদ্ধ পরিস্থিতি ও ভয়াবহ জ্বালানি সংকটের প্রভাবে আবারও অস্থির হয়ে উঠছে বৈশ্বিক সমুদ্র বাণিজ্য। এই প্রেক্ষাপটে নতুন করে জাহাজভাড়া বাড়ানোর প্রস্তুতি
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