Shipping Adviser Brigadier General Oversees Historic Profit Surge at BSC
Shipping Adviser Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr. M. Sakhawat Hossain announced a landmark financial achievement for the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation, stating that the state-owned entity recorded its highest-ever net profit in the 2024–25 fiscal year. The earnings marked a major turning point in the organisation’s 54-year journey, reflecting improved management, operational discipline, and renewed focus on long-term growth.
During the annual general meeting of the corporation, it was disclosed that BSC earned a net profit of Tk 306.56 crore, surpassing all previous records. Total income for the fiscal year stood at Tk 798.28 crore, signaling a strong recovery and a stable revenue base for the national carrier. Officials described the performance as a sign of renewed confidence in Bangladesh’s maritime sector.
The adviser noted that these results did not come by chance. He attributed the success to stricter oversight, better fleet utilisation, and a focus on transparency. According to him, the shipping sector has long suffered from inefficiencies that limited growth despite strong trade demand. The latest figures suggest that meaningful reforms are beginning to show results.
Shipping Adviser Brigadier General Flags Structural Issues at Chattogram Port
Alongside financial success, the Shipping Adviser Brigadier General drew attention to long-standing structural problems surrounding Chattogram Port. He stated that control over port operations had remained concentrated within the same institutional framework for decades, creating what he described as a closed cycle of influence. This situation, he said, restricted fair competition and slowed modernization efforts.
The adviser emphasized that reforming port governance is essential for sustaining growth in shipping and trade. He pointed out that inefficiencies at the port level directly affect freight costs, turnaround time, and the global competitiveness of Bangladeshi exports. Addressing these issues, he added, requires political will, administrative reform, and strong monitoring mechanisms.
In response, the government has moved forward with a major development initiative for Chattogram Port. Officials confirmed that foreign investment worth $1 billion has been secured to support infrastructure upgrades, capacity expansion, and operational efficiency. These changes are expected to ease congestion and strengthen Bangladesh’s position as a regional maritime hub.
Shipping Adviser Brigadier General Supports Shareholder Returns and Fleet Growth
The meeting also approved a 25 percent cash dividend for shareholders, reflecting the corporation’s improved financial health. This decision was welcomed as a positive signal for public-sector accountability and performance-based returns. Management representatives stated that maintaining profitability while rewarding shareholders remains a core priority.
BSC’s fleet expansion plans were also outlined during the session. At present, the corporation operates several vessels acquired through foreign financing, along with a self-funded bulk carrier. Another vessel is scheduled to join the fleet in early 2026, further strengthening cargo capacity. Officials confirmed that long-term planning includes acquiring up to 12 container ships to meet rising trade demands.
This expansion is aimed at reducing dependence on foreign carriers and retaining freight earnings within the country. By increasing national shipping capacity, BSC hopes to play a more active role in handling Bangladesh’s growing import and export volumes.
Shipping Adviser Brigadier General Links Maritime Strength to Economic Stability
The adviser highlighted that a strong national shipping line is not just a commercial asset but a strategic economic tool. He noted that disruptions in global shipping often expose vulnerabilities in trade-dependent economies. Strengthening domestic shipping capacity, he said, improves resilience during global crises and supports national economic security.
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He also stressed the need for consistent policy support and institutional reform to sustain momentum. According to him, financial success must be backed by governance reforms to ensure that gains are not reversed. Also Read: Bangladesh summon envoys as diplomatic tension grows between Delhi and Dhaka
Conclusion
The announcement by the Shipping Adviser Brigadier General marks a significant moment for Bangladesh Shipping Corporation. Record profits, dividend payouts, fleet expansion, and port development plans together signal a shift toward stability and growth, with long-term reforms now becoming the real test ahead.
