A high-level delegation from the Japanese multinational trading and investment company Mitsui & Co., led by Country Chairman Kenichiro Kawamoto, held a courtesy meeting and bilateral discussion with senior officials of the Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) in Chattogram.
The meeting focused on the Matarbari Deep Sea Port project, modernization of Chattogram Port, investment prospects, and opportunities in the blue economy.
The delegation meet with CPA Board Member (Harbour & Marine) Commodore Ahmed Amin Abdullah at Port building on Thursday.
The delegation also meet CPA Chairman Rear Admiral S. M. Moniruzzaman on April 29.
During the discussions, Commodore Ahmed Amin Abdullah briefed the delegation on the port’s recent development initiatives. He highlighted progress in digitalization, automation, record container handling capacity, compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code with zero observations, zero vessel waiting time, and overall service modernization.
According to port officials, these initiatives have significantly increased operational efficiency, improved cargo handling speed, and reduced both time and costs in import-export activities.
Discussion on Matarbari Deep Sea Port : The meeting also included detailed discussions on the development of the Matarbari Deep Sea Port project, its operational efficiency, and its potential role in international trade.
The Mitsui delegation presented several proposals regarding commercial management, infrastructure support, technological cooperation, and enhancement of operational efficiency for the project.
Experts noted that once operational, the Matarbari Deep Sea Port will allow large international vessels to directly berth in Bangladesh, reducing dependency on transshipment hubs, lowering logistics costs, and significantly improving export competitiveness.
Interest in Investment and Long-Term Partnership : The delegation also expressed strong interest in potential investment in port infrastructure development and long-term collaboration in Bangladesh’s blue economy.
They highlighted opportunities for partnership in port management, energy, maritime logistics, industrial infrastructure, and commercial facility development.
Other members of the delegation included Reiji Nakanishi and Deputy Manager of Infrastructure and Energy Division Md. Mohaiyminul Islam.
Stakeholders believe that such interest from a globally renowned investment group reflects increasing international confidence in Bangladesh’s port sector. This may pave the way for new foreign investments in Chattogram Port, the Matarbari project, and the wider maritime economy in the coming years.
