🔴 Operations Status (Feb 7–8, 2026)

• Major indefinite strike resumed by port workers and employees protesting the government’s plan to lease the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) to UAE-based DP World. 
• Because of the strike, operations at several terminals have been suspended, with container handling, vessel loading/unloading, and traffic flow significantly impacted or halted. 
• All commercial activity across key terminals is largely inactive, and multiple berthed vessels remain idle. 
• The Port Authority has deployed additional law enforcement personnel at gate areas to maintain order amid the unrest. 

📌 What’s Causing the Disruption

• The core issue triggering the stoppage is opposition to the proposed lease of the NCT to DP World. Workers’ groups want that decision reversed and have broader demands, including administrative changes. 
• Earlier in the week, a temporary pause of strike activity gave way to renewed indefinite action once demands were not met. 

📦 Impact on Trade & Supply Chain

• The work stoppage has severely disrupted export and import flows, with export volumes stuck and vessels unable to sail. 
• Export containers and cargo are accumulating at the port and private depots, contributing to backlogs and congestion. 

📍 Broader Industry & Economic Concerns

• Business groups, including EuroCham Bangladesh, have expressed concern over the halt in operations, warning of damage to export competitiveness and supply chain reliability. 
• Chittagong Port handles a large majority of Bangladesh’s global trade, especially for the garment sector, so prolonged disruption could have wider economic effects.

Source: DT (Dhaka Tribune)