Car imports through Chattogram Port have sharply increased ahead of Bangladesh’s upcoming national election. Over the past six months, more than 7,000 vehicles arrived at the port, with 6,651 cleared by importers. The customs authority collected around Tk 1,153 crore in revenue during this period, marking a significant rise compared to the previous fiscal year. The port handled 841 brand-new and 6,225 reconditioned cars via 16 specialized Ro-Ro vessels, setting a new record for vehicle imports within such a short time.

Importers and showroom managers attributed the surge to election-related demand, particularly for microbuses and vans used in campaigns, as well as expectations of post-election stability. After years of sluggish sales due to dollar shortages and higher import taxes, the market is showing signs of recovery. Daily vehicle deliveries from the port have risen from about 10 to 40–50 units.

Officials noted that timely vehicle clearance has improved, with only 103 cars delayed beyond the 30-day limit. However, some traders suggested that the increase in imports may reflect logistical shifts from Mongla Port rather than a broad rise in consumer demand.