Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called for effective implementation of policies and operational excellence to transform Bangladesh’s maritime sector into a modern, safe, competitive and environmentally sustainable driver of national development.
In a message issued on the occasion of World Maritime Day 2026, he said the government is committed to transforming the country’s maritime sector into a modern, secure, competitive and environmentally sustainable engine of national development.
“Our priority areas are stronger implementation, modern infrastructure, environmentally friendly shipping, skilled seafarers and effective maritime governance,” he said.
Bangladesh is observing World Maritime Day 2026 under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) theme of achieving maritime excellence by turning policy into practice.
The prime minister said the theme is closely aligned with Bangladesh’s national goals. Formulating sound policies and regulations alone is not enough to realise the country’s maritime potential, he said, stressing the need for effective enforcement and operational excellence.
Referring to the BNP election manifesto, Tarique Rahman said the government has pledged to prioritise the development of the blue economy through the scientific and sustainable use of marine resources, deep-sea fishing, environmentally friendly tourism and coastal industries.
He said the manifesto also includes plans to establish a national Blue Economy Authority and create significant employment opportunities through various maritime initiatives.
Highlighting Bangladesh’s strategic location in the Bay of Bengal, the prime minister said more than 90 percent of the country’s international trade is conducted by sea. Essential goods and services are transported through the ports of Chattogram, Mongla and Payra, as well as the country’s extensive river network.
He said Bangladesh has gradually strengthened its legal and institutional framework for maritime boundaries, shipping and port management since independence. The country has also signed 29 maritime conventions of the IMO.
The government is also prioritising efforts to reduce carbon emissions from inland and seagoing vessels and accelerate the green transition in the shipping sector, he said.
Describing 2026 as a “year of implementation,” Tarique Rahman outlined four key priorities: advancing green shipping and developing world-class ship-recycling facilities; modernising port infrastructure through automated and digital logistics systems; protecting maritime sovereignty and ecosystems by expanding hydrographic activities and taking measures to prevent marine plastic pollution; and upgrading maritime training institutions to enhance the skills and capabilities of seafarers.
“Maritime excellence must be reflected in our day-to-day operations,” he said.
The prime minister urged port authorities, shipowners, seafarers, maritime professionals and environmental organisations to work together to turn global standards and national priorities into tangible results.
He also called for collective efforts to harness Bangladesh’s maritime potential and build a strong blue economy and a safer, greener and more prosperous future.
