In a significant move to strengthen trade ties, Shipping Adviser Brig Gen (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain requested the establishment of a direct marine route between Bangladesh and Norway at a meeting with Norwegian Ambassador to Bangladesh Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen on Sunday. The advisor emphasized the potential impact of such a route on Bangladesh’s expanding ready-made garment (RMG) sector, which has seen a dramatic increase in shipments to Norway.
The port of Chittagong was emphasized as a “golden gateway” that supports efficient marine trade routes and boosts the economy of Bangladesh. The present transshipment period required for exports to the European Union is 40 to 45 days; a direct marine link with Norway might cut that time down to just 15 days. Reducing the average transport time from 18 to 23 days will not only increase trade efficiency but also significantly lower shipping costs.
Bangladesh shipping adviser proposed a special shipping deal with Norway to facilitate this direct marine connectivity. He emphasized how important this deal is for smoother trade operations, especially for the RMG sector, which has a significant market share in Norway.
