Stories
Bangladesh Port Deal With UAE Firm DP World Sparks Fierce Protests
- •Protests erupted in Dhaka and Chattogram after the government signed a 15-year concession agreement with UAE-based DP World to operate the New Mooring Container Terminal.
- •Dock workers, labour unions, and left-leaning political groups opposed the deal, fearing negative impacts on local jobs, government revenue, and foreign-exchange earnings.
- •Police and protesters clashed in Dhaka outside the Investment Development Authority office, leaving several people injured, including Communist Party president Sajjad Zahir Chandan.
- •The government defended the agreement, stating that partnering with a global operator like DP World will introduce modern technology, reduce corruption, and attract foreign investment.
- •DP World will make an upfront payment of USD 49 million and invest over USD 81 million in the first decade to modernize the terminal, which handles over 40 percent of the port's container traffic.
Key Questions Answered
Dock workers, labor unions, and left-leaning political groups are opposing the agreement with UAE-based DP World due to concerns over potential negative impacts on jobs, government revenue, and foreign-exchange earnings. Critics have also questioned handing over a profitable facility that was previously operated domestically.
Under the 15-year concession agreement, UAE-based DP World will make an upfront payment of about USD 49 million to operate the New Mooring Container Terminal. Additionally, the company will invest over USD 81 million during the first 10 years to modernize the terminal.
The government defended the agreement by stating that partnering with a global operator like DP World will introduce modern equipment, digital systems, and international operating standards. Shipping Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam noted that these upgrades will reduce corruption, shorten ship waiting times, attract foreign investment, and improve local professional skills.
