Colombo port set to lose out from new direct container shipping service between Chattogram and Dubai

A direct container shipping service is to be launched between Chattogram, Bangladesh and Dubai avoiding the Colombo Port, a Bangladeshi media report said.  
Imports from Dubai now come to Chattogram via Sri Lanka’s Colombo port. The consignments are unloaded from the mother vessel and then loaded into smaller feeder vessels in Colombo. Export consignments are also sent to Dubai via Colombo.

Saif Powertec Limited is set to launch a direct container shipping service on Chattogram-United Arab Emirates route, slashing the shipping time to 18 days from current 45 and reducing freight cost by US$ 150-200 per 20-foot equivalent unit (TEU), a news report by The Business Standard said. 

Three of Saif Powertec vessels will sail from Dubai in the UAE in November.
According to the news report the Colombo, transshipment pushes up both the freight cost and shipping time. The direct service will cut out the freight handling charges and time at the Lankan port.

Saif Powertec ships will be carrying 1,700 TEUs of goods on each trip, and commute from Chattogram to Dubai every ten days, said Ruhul Amin Saif Powertec Managing Director, Ruhul Amin.