Port of Matarbari
An emerging deep-sea port developed to support Bangladesh’s long-term economic growth, improve logistics efficiency, and reduce dependence on transshipment through foreign ports.
Overview
Matarbari is an emerging deep-sea port being developed to support Bangladesh’s long-term economic growth. It is expected to improve logistics efficiency and reduce dependence on transshipment through foreign ports.
Strategically located in the southeastern region of Bangladesh along the Bay of Bengal, the port transforms the country’s maritime landscape by accommodating larger deep-draft vessels, significantly cutting down shipping turnaround times and operational costs.
Development & History
Originally conceptualized to support a major coal-fired power plant project, the Matarbari area underwent massive dredging and marine infrastructure development to convert its coastal geography into a state-of-the-art deep-water navigation channel.
With international backing and advanced engineering, it has rapidly grown into a cornerstone project for Bangladesh’s industrial expansion and international trade connectivity.
Location & Approaches
Situated on Moheshkhali Upazila in Cox’s Bazar district, facing the Bay of Bengal. Protected approach channels and breakwater construction ensure safe navigation and shelter for ultra-large container ships and bulk carriers.
Port layout and cargo facilities
Advanced deep-water terminals and heavy-duty infrastructure tailored for containerized logistics, energy imports, and bulk commodities.
Containers
Modern container terminals equipped with high-speed gantry cranes to handle large container vessels directly without regional transshipment delays.
Coal
Dedicated high-capacity coal unloading berths and stockyards built to supply adjacent power generation facilities securely and efficiently.
Energy-related cargo
Specialized marine infrastructure supporting LNG and other energy product imports to power the nation’s rising industrial demand.
Bulk commodities
Deep-water berths and heavy-duty storage yards designed to handle high-volume dry and liquid bulk shipments seamlessly.
Industrial imports
Strategic staging areas and specialized quays accommodating heavy industrial machinery, raw materials, and project cargo.
Deep-Water Berths
Extensive channel depth capable of receiving large ocean-going vessels that previously could not dock at standard river ports in the region.
Pilotage, restrictions, and hazards
Essential operational procedures and navigational guidelines for vessels arriving at the Port of Matarbari.
Pilotage & Tug Services
Pilotage is compulsory within the deep channel. High-powered harbor tugs assist incoming deep-draft vessels through the engineered fairway.
Port Restrictions
Strict vessel traffic management systems and speed limits govern the narrow approach channel to maintain safety for large commercial tonnage.
Weather Conditions
Tropical monsoon climate affects the region; careful weather routing and monsoon season precautions are necessary during heavy rains and squalls.
Navigation Hazards
Vessels must maintain sharp lookout for local fishing boats near outer approaches and monitor dynamic siltation tendencies along coastal zones.
Emergency Contacts & Nearby Services
Port operations and emergency response are managed in coordination with the Chittagong Port Authority and local maritime authorities. Bunkering, vessel supplies, and technical support are accessible through designated local agents.
Interesting Facts
- Once fully operational, Matarbari will be Bangladesh’s first true deep-sea port capable of accommodating large ocean-going container ships directly.
- Significantly reduces logistics bottlenecks by eliminating the need to transship containers through neighboring foreign hub ports.
- Features a meticulously dredged navigation channel exceeding 14–16 meters in depth, unlocking unprecedented shipping capacity for the nation.
- Acts as a vital economic catalyst, linking Bangladesh’s growing industrial export sectors directly to major global maritime highways.