They also underscored the need for fast-track modernisation of all seaports, including the Chittagong Port, and also called for coordinated efforts of the government, port management and labour and development partners for maximising economic benefits to reduce poverty in the country.

The Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) and the shipping ministry jointly organised the workshop on 'Improving Port Efficiency: Sharing International Experience of Private Container Terminal Operations', at a city hotel. The World Bank supported the workshop.

"Our ports need to enhance capacity by improving the productivity of terminal facilities to meet the growing demand," said Adviser to the shipping ministry Maj Gen (retd) MA Matin as the chief guest.

He also said that a private investor-cum-operator on SOT (Supply, Operate and Transfer) basis would be appointed through bid solicitation to manage and operate the newly built New Mooring Container Terminal.

He said some major changes have taken place in the Chittagong port since February 2007, which include improvement of operational efficiency and development of personal management.

The ship turnaround time reduced to 3.5 days instead of 11 days, cost of cargo handling by the port has reduced by Tk 20 crore per year and surplus revenue has increased by additional Tk 50 crore in comparison to the previous financial year, the adviser said.

Speaking at the programme, Mohamed A Toure, acting country director of the World Bank, stressed the need for institutional reforms in Chittagong Port and suggested introducing competition from the private sector operators to improve public sector operators' efficiency.

"The cost at Chittagong port is higher than several ports in the region," he said.

Sheikh Enayetullah, secretary to the ministry of Shipping, also spoke at the inaugural session of the workshop chaired by CPA Chairman Commodore M Farooque.