In a major step towards digital transformation, the Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) has officially launched a fully automated, API-based digital payment system, aimed at modernising port payment operations and enhancing user experience.
The CPA partnered with Eastern Bank PLC (EBL) to launch the digital payment system on Saturday at a ceremony held at Radisson Blu Chattogram.
Speaking as the Chief Guest, Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr. M Sakhawat Hussain, Adviser to the Ministry of Shipping, said, “This is a bold step towards a smarter, more efficient future. The new system reflects CPA’s unwavering commitment to digital governance and will revolutionise the port’s payment infrastructure.”
The platform enables instant confirmation of VAT, advance income tax (AIT), and welfare payments, while automating reconciliation and ensuring transparent audit trails. It is expected to ease congestion at port facilities, reduce operational costs, and improve turnaround time—bringing greater convenience and efficiency to all port users.
Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Dr. Sahadat Hossain, present as Special Guest, said, “The successful launch of this digital payment system is a testament to the power of effective collaboration between the Chittagong Port Authority and Eastern Bank. It reflects a shared commitment to innovation, transparency, and service excellence.”
CPA Chairman Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman remarked, “While our existing systems are strong, they have depended heavily on manual processes. This partnership marks a significant shift toward a fully automated, secure, and transparent payment framework.”
Ali Reza Iftekhar, Managing Director of Eastern Bank PLC, said, “Chattogram Port, the backbone of Bangladesh’s maritime trade, is taking a bold leap into the digital future with this platform powered by EBL. This is more than just a system upgrade—it’s a paradigm shift in revenue collection and service delivery.”
Senior officials from EBL present at the event included Additional Managing Directors Ahmed Shaheen and Osman Ershad Faiz; Deputy Managing Directors Riad Mahmud Chowdhury, Mehdi Zaman, and M. Khorshed Anowar; as well as Md. Jabedul Alam, Ahsan Ullah Chowdhury, and Ziaul Karim.