The agreement signed on Maritime Transport Cooperation (AMTC) will enhance port efficiency, harmonize maritime policies, and streamline customs procedures, ensuring smoother movement of goods and services, said the BIMSTEC Secretariat on Sunday.

With AMTC in place, the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) now has a “comprehensive framework” for seamless maritime transport, aimed at reducing logistical bottlenecks and deepening economic integration.

Beyond trade facilitation, AMTC seeks to boost investment in key maritime infrastructure, including ports, shipping lanes, and coastal logistics hubs, fostering regional economic growth and stability.

It also promotes cooperation in maritime safety, environmental sustainability, digitalization of shipping processes, and capacity-building.

The BIMSTEC agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation (AMTC) was signed on the occasion of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit held in Bangkok, Thailand recently.

BIMSTEC reaffirms its critical role to deal with shared security, challenges

The Foreign Ministers of BIMSTEC member States signed the agreement, marking a transformative step towards enhancing maritime partnerships in the region.

BIMSTEC leaders welcomed the signing of the AMTC, recognizing its potential to enhance regional maritime connectivity, facilitate cross-border trade, and spur investment in port infrastructure, logistics, and related sectors.

Chief Adviser Dr Yunus returns home from BIMSTEC Summit

They also directed relevant authorities to expedite its implementation.

BIMSTEC comprises seven countries of the Bay of Bengal region: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand.