An abrupt policy change halting all import and export activities at Benapole Land Port after 6pm, implemented without prior notice or transition measures, has significantly disrupted the supply chain.
The authorities state that the measure is intended to prevent the entry of undocumented and smuggled goods.
Following the decision, extensive queues of cargo trucks have clogged the Bangladesh-India border, imposing severe financial strain on importers and exporters.
Customs authorities state that the decision was finalised after consultations with the port’s C&F Agents Association.
However, the association disputes this, stating that while the matter was discussed, no decision was approved.
A source from the Indian import sector stated that this unilateral decision violates trade policies between India and Bangladesh.
The port office states that on 1 August 2017, both countries announced the launch of the 24-hour Benapole-Petrapole Integrated Check Post (ICP).
In 2024, the National Board of Revenue directed all customs houses nationwide to operate 24/7.
However, this directive remains unimplemented at Benapole, undermining Bangladesh’s regional trade competitiveness.
According to traders, the persistent lack of coordination between port and customs operations leads to recurring administrative bottlenecks.
With daily trade valued at approximately Tk200–250 crore passing through the port, reduced operational hours have directly slowed economic activity.
Port sources indicate that more than 1,500 trucks remain stranded at the border each day.
Many carry perishable items — fruits, vegetables, fish, cosmetics, and chemical raw materials — that are now increasingly at risk of spoilage. Where previously 400–450 trucks entered the port daily, the figure has now dropped to 180–200.
Industry estimates indicate that goods worth Tk100–150 crore remain undelivered daily due to the restriction, causing significant losses for businesses and costing the government several crores in daily revenue.
Traders contend that the blanket restriction is unjustified and enforcement should focus on offenders involved in illegal imports—not the broader business community.
Anarul Islam, a C&F business man, said that shutting operations after evening without advance notice is unacceptable. Hundreds of trucks are stuck on both sides of the border, causing massive financial losses.
“If the gridlock continues, traders will shift to alternative ports like Bhomra, Hili, or Sonamasjid, and government revenue will decline,” he warned.
President of Jashore Chamber of Commerce Mizanur Rahman Khan told the Daily Sun in the morning that such decisions require consultation with affected businesses.
“Reducing service hours unilaterally is neither trade-friendly nor aligned with national economic interests,” he said.
This correspondent, however, could not immediately contact officials for a quote.
LND/SAE
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