An efficient port logistic management system is the demand of time right at this moment, said the speakers at a seminar stressing the need for framing a 'National Logistic Policy" for ensuring this.
Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and industry (DCCI) organised the seminar titled “Efficient Port Logistic Management and Trade Competitiveness of Bangladesh”on Monday at DCCI auditorium.
Md. Mostafa Kamal, Secretary, Ministry of Shipping, government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh was present as the chief guest.
The seminar was chaired by Rizwan Rahman, President, Dhaka Chamber.
Mostafa Kamal, Secretary, Ministry of Shipping said that beside Chittagong and Mongla port Payra port is coming soon.
Recently Abu Dhabi port has showed their interest to work in Bangladesh’s port sector in any area. Regarding logistic improvement, he said that in recent past government has invested a lot to make our ports more functional.
He also stressed for professional people in this sector for better output.
He also said that as a regulatory authority there can be an ICD Authority in the country.
DCCI President Rizwan Rahman said port logistics management is an important element of international trade competitiveness. With the consistent enhancement of the capacity, the Chattogram port has been recognized as the 64th world's busiest port.
"But Chattogram port has been ranked as the Asia's least efficient trade hub for handling containers according to the World Bank due to lower drafting capacity, inefficient port handling capacity, limited port yard, poor turn-around time, port shed and modern equipment", Rizwan added.
Dr. M Masrur Reaz, Chairman, Policy Exchange of Bangladesh presented the keynote paper. He highlighted that Bangladesh is ranked 100 overall in the logistic performance index, 102nd in logistics quality and competence index. Moreover, Bangladesh has one of the highest logistic costs globally. Modern ports enhance regional connectivity and global markets, ICDs and industrial zones.
Shamim Ul Huq, Country Director, DP World Bangladesh said Bangladesh has done a tremendous prospects in ports but still it lags behind. To compete with the global market he suggested for an integrated logistics platform.
Kabir Ahmed, President Bangladesh Freight Forwarders Association said port should not be used as a warehouse. We are planning to increase our export to USD 100 billion, but for that we need private sector bonded warehouse.
Syed Ali JowherRizvi, Managing Director, Summit Alliance Port Ltd. said that to achieve USD 100 billion export we have to have more off docks in the private sector.
Lee Peng Gee, Vice President, Group Business Development, PSA International private Ltd. said PSA is keen to participate in the development of Bay Terminal project and presently they are doing feasibility study and they are committed to work closely with Bangladesh to invest and develop this iconic project.
