ports

Bangladesh Opens Inland Container Depots to Full Foreign Control

Bangladesh eliminated restrictions on foreign ownership of inland container depots and off-dock facilities, effective July 1, in an effort to bolster investment in its logistics infrastructure. Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury announced the policy shift during the June 11 budget presentation. The country previously capped foreign stakes at 49% in privately operated ICDs, requiring partnerships with domestic entities. International investors may now establish and operate facilities with complete ownership. The nation operates 24 private ICDs, several already holding foreign equity positions. Major terminal operators including DP World, Medlog, Red Sea Gateway Terminal, APM Terminals and PSA Singapore have stakes or shown interest in Bangladesh's port sector. The government expects the move will attract greater participation from global logistics operators as the country expands trade infrastructure. Industry observers endorsed the decision while noting additional reforms remain necessary to drive substantial new investment.