19 Private Depots Halt Export Cargo Handling Over Tariff Dispute

Nineteen private Inland Container Depots (ICDs) supporting the Chattogram port are set to suspend the handling of export cargo and empty containers starting tomorrow morning (December 11). This unilateral action by the individual depot owners raises significant concerns about a major disruption to Bangladesh's export chain.

The core issue is a long-standing tariff dispute. The Bangladesh Inland Container Depots Association (BICDA) had attempted to raise service charges—including stuffing, ground rent, lift-on/lift-off, documentation, and transport—by 30-63% from September 1. The last tariff increase was in 2016, and depot owners argue that rising labor wages over nine years have made operations at the old rates financially impossible.

August: BICDA announces a tariff hike (30-63%) effective September 1. Opposition & Court Intervention: Port users opposed the hike and refused to pay. The matter was taken to court, which suspended the revised tariff.

Government Clarification: The shipping ministry clarified that new charges require approval from the Tariff Committee, forcing the depots to continue under the old rates.

Suspension Decision: Three months later, individual depot owners have decided to halt operations.

They have privately notified clients and shipping lines of their inability to handle export cargo and empty containers, though BICDA confirms no formal organizational decision was issued.

Since all export cargo is processed through these 19 ICDs, all export shipments will stop. Export-oriented sectors, particularly the apparel industry, will face immediate setbacks. ICDs handle all empty containers and nearly double the storage capacity (106,000 TEUs) of the port's own yards (60,000 TEUs). A shutdown will lead to severe container congestion at Chattogram port. Stakeholders, including the Director of the Bangladesh Shipping Agents Association, warned that the unannounced shutdown affects the country's trade reputation and global supply chains.

Chattogram Port Secretary Omar Faruk confirmed they are aware of the issue but have not received any official communication from BICDA.