For seven days, the government has waived demurrage charges for imported containers containing raw materials and accessories for the ready-to-wear industry. These containers were unable to be delivered from the Chittagong port because of disturbances brought on by the government-imposed curfew and the quota reform movement.
In a circular released on Tuesday, the shipping ministry waived the fees for shipments that arrive at the port between 16th July and 5th August.
As to the circular, the ministry took this decision in response to a plea from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association. It further specified that importers have to discharge their products before 14th August to qualify for the port charge waiver.
BGMEA president SM Mannan Kochi held a meeting with State Minister for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury and urged the waiver of port demurrage charges for containers belonging to the garment sector.
The request was made because the quota reform movement, the curfew, and the absence of internet connectivity to the nation’s ports and customs systems prevented the items from being cleared promptly.
