In a first-of-its-kind trade development, Bangladesh has imported molasses from Pakistan via Mongla Port, marking a significant milestone in the country’s trade relations with Pakistan.
The Panama-flagged vessel MT Dolphin-19 arrived at Mongla Port this morning, carrying 5,500 metric tons of molasses from Karachi Port, Pakistan. After a long journey across the sea, the vessel was finally anchored, and the unloading process began in the afternoon. This shipment signals Bangladesh’s growing reliance on diversified sources for raw materials used in various industries, particularly the livestock and food sectors.
As per Makruzzaman, Deputy Director of Mongla Port Authority, the vessel departed from Karachi on January 22, transporting its valuable cargo across international waters. Padma Feed and Chicks Limited is an importing company that is involved in evaluating the unloading operations to ensure a smooth transition from the port to its final destinations.
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After unloading the molasses at Mongla, it will be transported by both road and waterway to Baghabari in Sirajganj, a key distribution hub. This will be supplied to various feed mills and industries across Bangladesh. When sugar goes through the process of refining, it produces molasses. These sugar byproducts are excessively used in animal feed production, alcohol distillation, and even as a sweetener in certain food products.
The port is expected to be highly advantageous for the country’s poultry, dairy, and industrial sectors, guaranteeing a steady supply of molasses at competitive prices. Industry experts keep on believing that establishing Pakistan as a supplier of molasses could help open the door for trade opportunities between the two nations.
Mongla Port is considered to be Bangladesh’s second-largest seaport and continues to grow as a vital gateway for international trade. Due to the region’s expanded infrastructure, the port is becoming a highly attractive entry point for bulk commodities. The successful management of this shipment depicts Mongla’s strong efficiency and capacity to manage cargo, especially liquid cargo.
With this development, traders and industrialists are hopeful that Bangladesh will explore more trade opportunities with Pakistan, fostering stronger economic ties and ensuring a stable supply of essential raw materials.