A Bangladesh-flagged cargo vessel, stranded in the Persian Gulf since early March due to the US-Iran conflict, resumed its voyage towards the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday following the two-week ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran.
The MV Banglar Joyjatra, carrying 37,000 tonnes of fertiliser, set sail from Saudi Arabia’s Ras Al-Khair Port at 8am Bangladesh time with a 31-member crew.
Bangladesh Shipping Corporation (BSC) Managing Director Commodore Mahmudul Malek confirmed the matter, saying that the vessel is expected to reach the mouth of the strait in approximately 40 hours.
“We are in close contact with Iranian authorities to ensure safe transit, and the ship will cross the strait only after receiving clearance,” he added.
The vessel had initially entered the Persian Gulf on 2 February with Indian cargo and later loaded steel coils in Qatar before arriving at Jebel Ali Port in UAE on 27 February. It completed unloading on 11 March but remained stranded in the Gulf as hostilities escalated. Following the ceasefire, the BSC authorised its resumption towards the Strait of Hormuz, closely monitoring the situation for safety.
Meanwhile, another vessel, the crude oil tanker Nordic Pollux, carrying 1 lakh tonnes of crude worth around Tk600 crore, remains anchored at Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura Port.
Commodore Mahmudul Malek confirmed that the tanker will depart for Chattogram once navigational clearance is obtained.
He assured that no demurrage charges will apply, as the charter contract includes force majeure provisions protecting Bangladesh from costs due to geopolitical disruptions.
BSC officials also highlighted plans to strengthen the nation’s maritime supply chain. A government-to-government agreement with China signed on 11 March will bring four new vessels, including two crude oil mother tankers and two bulk carriers, to reduce reliance on foreign-flagged ships.
Additionally, BSC is preparing proposals for two product oil tankers of 40,000-55,000 DWT to further expand the fleet.
The BSC reported a record net profit of Tk306 crore in the 2024-25 fiscal year against total revenue of Tk800 crore, reflecting strategic chartering and improved operational efficiency.
Mahmudul Malek noted, “The safe transit of Banglar Joyjatra and eventual clearance of Nordic Pollux are crucial steps in maintaining uninterrupted fuel and commodity supply while enhancing Bangladesh’s shipping capacity.”
The successful movement of these vessels is seen as a test of renewed stability in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global oil trade.
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