In what is seen a move that will provide some much-needed breathing space to the overworked port, port authorities have decided the less-than-container load (LCL) cargo handling process of Chittagong Port will take place outside the port area even if the importers have demanded the charges for it remains the same.
This is as per reports which added the implementation of this initiative will allow importers to expedite the release of their goods within a 24-hour timeframe upon arrival at the port even if this measure will also help to minimize the risk of theft and spoilage of goods.
Md Shamsul Azam, the director of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), emphasised that reducing the cargo delivery time to a single day would result in a decrease in lead time for the export of readymade garments and a reduction in store rents.
Nevertheless, it is crucial to maintain the existing port charges, according to Azam even if importers have reportedly expressed concerns about potential tariff increases based on previous experiences and urged the port authority to ensure that no private company can exploit or impede businessmen during the unstuffing process.
