The government is considering appointing some of the world's most experienced port operators to manage Chattogram Port and other sea and land ports in the region, said Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam yesterday.

He expressed hope that the recruitment process would be completed by September this year.

Speaking at a press conference at the Chattogram Circuit House in the afternoon, Shafiqul addressed concerns regarding the rationale behind bringing in foreign operators instead of employing domestic ones.

"Chattogram Port is currently unable to handle cargo in line with the demands of today's global investors. Local operators, including Saif Powertec, are facing capacity limitations, which is a key reason behind the persistent container congestion at the port."

Shafiqul emphasised that the future trajectory of Bangladesh's economy hinges on the efficiency and capacity of Chattogram Port. "We have no alternative but to expand the capacity of the port, along with Patenga Terminal, Bay Terminal, and Matarbari Port.

"Chattogram and its surrounding areas are ideal for port-based development. We are in discussions with companies that have experience managing 50 to 100 ports globally."

Outlining the government's long-term vision, Shafiqul said the combined container handling capacity of ports in and around Chattogram currently stands at 1.27 million TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Unit). The government aims to raise this to 7.86 million TEUs by 2030.

One TEU is based on the volume of a standard 20-foot long intermodal container.

"To transform Bangladesh into an economic hub, port capacity must be expanded," he said, noting that a comprehensive strategy is being developed, which includes the improvement of the Dhaka-Chattogram highway and related infrastructure.

He assured that only top-tier companies with unblemished reputations will be selected, and the process will be fully transparent. "The agreements may be executed through open tenders or under a government-to-government (G2G) arrangement."

In response to a question about the establishment of a "humanitarian corridor" with Myanmar, the press secretary said, "I've already spoken on this matter clearly. We would consider a humanitarian corridor only if the United Nations takes the initiative.

"The entire matter would require discussions with both countries -- Myanmar and Bangladesh. The idea of a humanitarian corridor has come up because there is ongoing civil war in that region. I think it's premature. In our view, it's still a long way off."