Medlog, the logistics division of the MSC Group, has signed a concession agreement to take over and operate the Pangaon Inland Container Terminal (PICT).
With the investment, the company aims to improve connectivity in the landlocked country, make cargo flows more efficient and thus support the country’s industrial development.
“Our investment in the Pangaon Inland Container Terminal reflects our belief that Bangladesh has the potential to become one of the most important trade hubs in South Asia,” said MSC CEO Soren Toft. The company operates more than 100 terminals worldwide and serves over 500 ports. Toft’s visit to Geneva recently took place in the presence of Bangladesh’s shipping advisor Hussain.
The terminal is located near the capital Dhaka on the Buriganga River and in close proximity to the Dhaka-Mawa-Bhanga highway. By shifting freight transportation from road to waterways, PICT is expected to help ease traffic congestion, reduce emissions and increase the resilience of supply chains.
As part of the concession, Medlog will assume responsibility for the operation, equipment and automation of the site. There are also plans to expand capacity to an annual handling volume of 160,000 TEU. In addition, Medlog intends to charter inland cargo ships to connect Pangaon with other river terminals and the country’s seaports.
“Inland transportation plays a crucial role in efficient and sustainable supply chains,” emphasized Medlog Executive Director Salvatore Prudente. By investing in river ports, barge connections and multimodal infrastructure, the company wants to help shift freight from congested roads to waterways – to the benefit of trade, the environment and local communities.
