In response to strained political relations between Bangladesh and India, shipping lines have rapidly introduced new direct routes from China to Bangladesh, increasing capacity and shortening transit times. Pacific International Lines (PIL) has launched the China Chittagong Express, a weekly service that reduces the shipping time from China to Chittagong to just eight days, compared to the previous 20-22 days via regional hubs like Singapore and Port Klang.
The first vessel, carrying 935 TEUs, departed Ningbo on 31 August, stopping in Shanghai and Shekou before reaching Chittagong on 16 September. It is expected to return to China with over 1,000 TEUs. Currently, three vessels are operating this route, but more could be added to meet rising demand.
Bangladesh, which sources 25% of its imports from China, is expected to increase its imports, especially for the garment industry, as political tensions with India affect trade. Besides PIL, other major shipping lines such as Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM, and Sinocor-Hyundai have enhanced their China-Bangladesh services, with six operators now running ten ships weekly. These developments reflect China’s growing investment and influence in Bangladesh’s trade infrastructure.
