Shipping Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam told parliament on Wednesday that the government has no plans to hand over Chattogram Port to any foreign operator.

Responding to a starred question tabled by ruling party lawmaker Md. Shahadat Hossain from Laxmipur-1, the minister clarified that operators are appointed solely for managing specific port terminals, either through the Public Private Partnership Authority (PPPA) or under direct government approval.

He added that both domestic and foreign operators are eligible for consideration in such arrangements.

The minister said foreign and local operators are currently managing various terminals at the port to enhance capacity and keep pace with the modernization drive and the country’s growing import-export trade.

He noted that the Patenga Container Terminal (PCT) is already being run by a foreign operator.

Additionally, a PPP agreement has been signed with APM Terminals BV, a subsidiary of the Denmark-based Maersk Group, to construct and operate the Laldia Container Terminal on the right bank of the Karnaphuli River.

Chattogram Port operates as an autonomous body under the Chattogram Port Authority Act of 2022, led by a chairman along with a board and staff, the minister explained.

He emphasized that the port authority implements all policy decisions issued by the government from time to time.