China Expands Footprint Near Mongla Port
China has expanded its infrastructure and strategic engagement with Bangladesh through a new deal linked to Mongla port, raising fresh concerns in India over Beijing’s growing presence in the Bay of Bengal. The agreement was finalised during Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s visit to China.
Bangladesh China Port Deal
Bangladesh and China have formalised a deal to develop an economic zone near Mongla port, Bangladesh’s second-largest seaport after Chittagong. The project is significant because the land had earlier been linked to a proposed India-backed venture.
The site was later delisted by Bangladesh’s interim government in 2025 after political changes in Dhaka and a deterioration in India-Bangladesh ties following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in 2024.
China Indian Ocean Footprint
The Mongla-linked project is being seen as part of China’s wider push to strengthen its presence across the Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean region. Beijing already has major infrastructure and port interests across the region, including in Pakistan, Sri Lanka and East Africa.
Chinese President Xi Jinping told Bangladesh’s leadership that Beijing remains committed to deepening cooperation with Dhaka. The two countries also discussed Belt and Road cooperation, green development, digital economy, artificial intelligence and other strategic sectors.
India Bangladesh Strategic Concerns
For India, the deal carries geopolitical importance because Bangladesh sits close to India’s Northeast and the Bay of Bengal remains central to India’s maritime security interests. Any major Chinese role in port-linked infrastructure in Bangladesh is likely to be watched closely by New Delhi.
Bangladesh and China also agreed to advance cooperation on the Chittagong economic zone, Teesta river management, maritime affairs, agriculture, education, trade, investment and the proposed China-Myanmar-Bangladesh Economic Corridor.
