Decision to halt Benapole port operations after 6pm will hamper business: DCCI
The DCCI urges authorities to withdraw the imposed restrictions
The Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) has expressed deep concern over the sudden decision to suspend all import and export operations through Benapole land port after 6pm without prior notice and consultation.
"The decision, taken by the Benapole Customs to prevent illegal goods infiltration and smuggling, is likely to hamper overall trade activities," said the chamber in a press release today (26 October).
To restore normal business operations, Dhaka Chamber urged the relevant authorities to withdraw the imposed restrictions at the earliest and take effective measures to ensure smooth and uninterrupted trade activities at Benapole land port.
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The DCCI noted that as Benapole is the largest land port in the country which handles the majority of Bangladesh's bilateral trade with India there could have significant implications for cross-border trade and revenue generation due to this decision.
According to the Bangladesh Land Port Authority, during the fiscal year 2024–25, the total volume of Bangladesh's import and export through this port was 20,11,268 and 4,21,713 tonnes respectively.
"Therefore, such an abrupt and unexpected decision is likely to cause significant financial losses to traders, while also reducing revenue earnings of the port authority," it said.
Furthermore, the DCCI said due to the shortened operational hours, a large number of trucks carrying goods particularly perishable items-are now stranded on both sides of the border, creating risks of damage and wastage.
Besides, as a result of this decision all concerned businesses will have adverse impact and it may also increase the lead time in international trade, said the chamber.
The DCCI believes coordinated efforts among port authorities and law enforcement agencies are essential to prevent illegal trade and smuggling.
"However, using that as a reason to suspend trade operations at the country's largest land port is not acceptable," added the release.
The DCCI also thinks that if export-import operations remain open, the infiltration of illegal goods and smuggling will be reduced significantly.
