Written by The Banking Post
Bangladesh and Japan have moved closer to resolving a long-standing deadlock over the operation of the third terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), following high-level talks that officials say could yield a deal within days.
The second round of senior-level discussions, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday, focused on key sticking points—service charges, operational control and revenue-sharing arrangements—that have kept the nearly completed terminal idle.
Top policymakers from both sides attended the meeting, including ministers and senior officials overseeing foreign affairs, civil aviation and investment promotion. The Japanese delegation was led by a senior official from Japan’s transport ministry.
Officials said progress was made after the Japanese consortium revised its financial proposal, addressing several concerns raised by Bangladesh in earlier negotiations.
A senior aviation official described the ongoing efforts as aimed at reaching a “win-win” agreement that safeguards Bangladesh’s financial and operational interests while ensuring international standards in airport management.
The renewed momentum follows an earlier meeting in March, when Bangladesh requested a revised proposal to correct imbalances in previous terms.
The third terminal, one of the country’s largest infrastructure projects, has been built with Japanese support, primarily through development financing. Once operational, it is expected to significantly expand passenger capacity, improve service quality and position Dhaka as a regional aviation hub.
However, despite nearing completion, the facility has remained unused due to unresolved issues over management, cost structures and revenue sharing.
With existing terminals already operating beyond capacity, Friday’s meeting is being seen as a crucial step toward finally bringing the long-delayed terminal into operation.
