Shipping adviser calls for direct maritime route with Norway

Shipping Adviser Brig Gen(retd) M Sakhawat Hossain emphasised the need to establish a direct maritime link between Bangladesh and Norway.

The adviser spoke about this as the Norwegian Ambassador to Bangladesh Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen met with him at the ministry on Sunday.

Highlighting Chattogram port as a “golden gateway” to the country’s economy, the adviser underscored the importance of efficient maritime trade routes.

He pointed out that the government has been successfully conducting maritime trade with various global markets through Chattogram and other ports, with the European Union standing out as a key destination for Bangladeshi exports, particularly in the Readymade Garments (RMG) sector.

Bangladesh has seen a significant rise in exports to Norway recently, especially RMG products, which have gained a strong foothold in the Norwegian market.

Presently, it takes 40 to 45 days for goods to reach the European Union via transshipment, whereas a direct route to Norway could reduce this time to 15 days.

Such a route would reduce transit time by 18 to 23 days on average and significantly lower shipping costs, M Sakhawat Hossain emphasised.

He proposed a special shipping agreement with Norway to establish this direct connection, facilitating smoother trade operations.

Ambassador Gulbrandsen responded positively, noting the longstanding relationship between Norway and Bangladesh in trade, development cooperation, and commercial relations.

He shared that Norwegian companies are eager to explore opportunities in Bangladesh’s shipbuilding and other sectors.

The ambassador also mentioned his recent visit to Chattogram port. The adviser thanked the ambassador for the visit and requested him to visit Mongla, Payra, and other Bangladeshi ports as well.

Brig Gen (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain highlighted Bangladesh’s favourable investment climate and strategic position in South Asia.

Discussing environmental initiatives, he noted that Bangladesh, like Norway, is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in maritime operations.

Efforts are underway to digitise Bangladeshi ports, including automation to support green operations at Mongla and Payra ports, while a deep-sea port is also under construction at Matarbari.

Norway was invited to contribute technically and financially to port infrastructure, including dockyard construction and greenport development.

Ambassador Gulbrandsen affirmed Norway’s interest in supporting ship electrification projects, lighthouse construction, and other initiatives.

Adviser Hossain expressed hope for Norway’s support in the upcoming 2025 International Maritime Organisation (IMO) elections, citing Bangladesh’s active involvement in international maritime policy discussions.

The meeting concluded with commitments from both sides to strengthen cooperation in maritime trade, port development, and environmental sustainability.

Secretary of the Ministry of Textile and Jute Md Abdur Rauf, Acting Secretary of the Ministry of Shipping Delwara Begum, and senior officials were present.