A long-awaited Less-than-Container Load (LCL) cargo handling system has been implemented by the Mongla Port Authority, opening up new prospects for importers and exporters of all sizes.
Without having to pay the entire cost of an entire Container Load (FCL), dealers can ship smaller consignments in shared containers thanks to this provision. It is also possible to store imported items in the port yard and release them after customs clearance.
Due to the fact that Mongla Port only provided FCL services up until now, small traders who couldn’t fill complete containers had limited access. The Mongla Port Customs Agents Association formally requested LCL services from the port chairman in June after the business community had been clamouring for them for a long time. During his recent visit, Abdur Rahman Khan, the chairman of the National Board of Revenue (NBR), was also consulted about the matter and promised his support.
The facility was announced by the port administration in an official notification signed by Md. Kamal Hossain, Deputy Director (Traffic), on 7th August. Businesses were urged to utilise the system, according to Hossain, who also stated that the essential arrangements, including warehouse access, loading and unloading sheds, physical inspections, and delivery facilities, had been put in place to enable LCL imports and exports.
Md. Mosharraf Hossain, convener of the Customs Agents Association, praised the action, pointing out that without LCL facilities, many small traders had previously been unable to use Mongla Port. He stated that the association was grateful to the Port and NBR Chairmans for meeting their long-standing request.
Consignments too small to fill a whole container can now be delivered alongside other people’s goods in the same container, a cost-effective technique known as groupage shipping, according to Deputy Director Md. Makruzzaman Munsi, who explained the concept.
In addition to increasing government revenue and stabilising local commodity prices, officials anticipate that the system will draw more traders to Mongla Port.
