Octane Vessel Arrives at Chattogram Port

A Hong Kong–flagged vessel carrying a fresh consignment of octane from Malaysia has arrived at Chattogram Port, reinforcing fuel supply chains amid continued import operations.

The ship, named Qui Chi, carrying approximately 26,000 tonnes of octane, reached the outer anchorage of the port on Thursday morning (30 April). According to the local shipping agent, Pride Shipping Lines, cargo discharge operations are scheduled to begin later in the day.

This shipment marks the third octane consignment to arrive in April alone, reflecting sustained import activity to meet domestic fuel demand. Earlier consignments arrived on 8 April and 17 April, transported by separate vessels carrying 26,000 tonnes and 27,000 tonnes respectively.

With the addition of the latest cargo, total octane imports for April have reached approximately 79,000 tonnes. Based on an estimated national daily demand of around 1,200 tonnes, officials indicate that the current stock is sufficient to meet requirements for more than two months, assuming normal consumption patterns and uninterrupted distribution.

April Octane Shipments Summary

Pride Shipping Lines has confirmed that multiple other vessels are currently positioned at the outer anchorage, carrying both octane and diesel. At least five additional ships are reportedly awaiting berthing clearance.

In parallel, three vessels were berthed earlier this week and have already begun unloading fuel cargoes, helping to maintain steady supply flows through the port.

However, port operations continue to face structural and environmental constraints. According to the shipping agent, Chattogram Port has only three operational dolphin jetties dedicated to handling fuel cargo. This limited infrastructure restricts the number of vessels that can be processed simultaneously, often resulting in scheduling delays.

Adverse weather conditions have further complicated unloading activities in recent days, occasionally slowing cargo discharge and extending vessel waiting times at anchorage.

Despite these challenges, port authorities and shipping operators are continuing coordinated efforts to maintain uninterrupted fuel supply, with priority given to essential energy imports. The steady arrival of multiple consignments in April reflects ongoing reliance on maritime fuel procurement to support national consumption demands.