The minister also said the government had already identified several obstacles in the sector and would take steps to remove them.
Shipping Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam at a programme marking World Maritime Day 2026 and the 64th Raising Day of Bangladesh Marine Academy at the academy premises in Chattogram on Thursday (24 September). Photo: Collected
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Shipping Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam at a programme marking World Maritime Day 2026 and the 64th Raising Day of Bangladesh Marine Academy at the academy premises in Chattogram on Thursday (24 September). Photo: Collected
Shipping Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam today (24 September) said Bangladesh has significant potential in the maritime sector but has failed to fully utilise it.
“We had significant potential, but we could not utilise it. However, I am no longer thinking about why we could not do it. We now want to make it happen,” he said.
The minister made the remarks at a programme marking World Maritime Day 2026 and the 64th Raising Day of Bangladesh Marine Academy at the academy premises in Chattogram.
Rabiul said, “We have no shortage of institutions. Bangladesh Marine Academy, the Department of Shipping, Bangladesh Shipping Corporation, port authorities, BIWTA, BIWTC and the Ministry of Shipping are all there.”
“What we lack is coordinated effort, consideration of the greater national interest, and commitment to developing and establishing this promising sector,” he added.
The minister also said the government had already identified several obstacles in the sector and would take steps to remove them.
He said improving port efficiency and maritime services was essential to capitalise on growing international trade and investment.
Referring to developments at Chattogram port, he said the government was seeking foreign investment and expertise to improve container and cargo handling at terminals.
“We want to bring in organisations that know and understand port and container handling globally so that we can improve technologically and compete with major ports around the world,” he added.
The minister also highlighted difficulties faced by maritime cadets in securing the mandatory one-year sea training required for employment.
“We have to find out how we can ensure that cadets get on ships immediately after completing their training and fulfil the required one year of sea service,” he said.
He also said the government was working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to address visa-related problems faced by Bangladeshi seafarers seeking jobs abroad.
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