The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has announced plans to auction 168 containers of uncleared and auctionable goods through its electronic auction (e-auction) system this month as part of efforts to reduce congestion at Chattogram Port, enhance operational efficiency and prevent wastage of state assets.

According to an NBR press release issued on Tuesday, the initiative is aimed at improving the port's handling capacity, clearing container backlogs, ensuring physical and financial security and safeguarding public property.

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The auctions will be conducted entirely through a digital process to ensure transparency and accountability.

Under special e-auction No. 08/2026, 93 containers grouped into 76 lots will be auctioned in line with two NBR standing orders.

The consignments include various chemicals, bitumen, machinery and spare parts, plastic sheets, chest freezers, pipes, different types of fabrics, paper and household goods.

The NBR said no reserved value has been set for the goods under the special auction.

Meanwhile, e-auction No. 07/2026, to be conducted under the same standing order, will offer 75 containers in 55 lots.

The items include capital machinery, fabrics, PVC flex banners, badminton rackets, elevators, air filters, kraft liner paper, salt and other products.

To encourage greater competition, prospective bidders will be able to inspect the goods physically before submitting online bids.

Goods under e-auction No. 07/2026 will be available for inspection from July 13 to July 20 during office hours, while those under special e-auction No. 08/2026 can be inspected from July 16 to July 23.

Interested buyers can register on the customs' official e-auction portal and submit online bids for e-auction No. 07/2026 between July 12 and 3:00pm on July 22.

Bids for special e-auction No. 08/2026 can be submitted from July 14 until 3:00pm on July 26.

Successful bidders will be required to clear the goods in compliance with the applicable provisions of the Import Policy Order 2021-2024.

The bid box for e-auction No. 07/2026 will be opened at 3:30pm on July 22, while the bid box for special e-auction No. 08/2026 will be opened at 11:00am on July 27.

The NBR expressed hope that the technology-driven auction process will play an important role in increasing the efficiency of Chattogram Port and ensuring effective management of national assets.