Despite extreme volatility in the global energy markets, Chittagong Port continues to receive a steady influx of fuel-laden vessels. Over the past two weeks, 23 large tankers carrying oil, gas, and other energy products have successfully docked at Bangladesh’s primary seaport.
Currently, an additional four vessels are en route through Bangladesh’s territorial waters and are expected to anchor at Chittagong within the next week.
The recent surge in tanker arrivals comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East. Following the outbreak of conflict on 28 February, movement through the strategic Strait of Hormuz—which channels nearly 20% of global fuel shipments—was significantly disrupted. Despite these challenges, Chittagong Port has managed to maintain a continuous flow of fuel imports.
Port officials noted that most of the tankers arriving in recent weeks had passed through the Strait of Hormuz before the intensification of hostilities. The vessels have originated from diverse global locations, including Singapore, India, and Malaysia.
Between 3 March and 17 March, a total of 23 tankers carrying liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and diesel arrived at Chittagong. While the majority of these ships have completed unloading, a few are still in the process of offloading their cargo.
Looking ahead, four additional tankers are scheduled to arrive by 23 March. These vessels are arriving from Angola, Oman, Malaysia, and Thailand, carrying a mixture of LPG, LNG, and base oil. The table below summarises the upcoming shipments:
| No. | Origin Country | Fuel Type | Expected Arrival Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Angola | LPG | To commence unloading upon arrival |
| 2 | Oman | LPG | Scheduled to anchor 23 March |
| 3 | Malaysia | LNG | Unloading to begin immediately |
| 4 | Thailand | Base Oil | Cargo will be offloaded after anchoring |
Port authorities have emphasised that maintaining the continuity of fuel imports is crucial for national energy security, particularly in times of global instability. The steady arrival of tankers ensures that domestic energy demands, including for power generation and industrial use, continue to be met without major disruption.
Experts have observed that proactive logistical planning and close monitoring of maritime routes have allowed Chittagong Port to operate efficiently despite regional tensions. The upcoming four tankers are expected to reinforce the country’s fuel reserves and mitigate potential shortages in the coming weeks.
In summary, Chittagong Port has demonstrated resilience in sustaining the nation’s energy supply, with the imminent arrival of four more fuel-laden vessels further consolidating Bangladesh’s strategic energy preparedness.