The Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) has voiced strong concern over the sudden decision to halt all import and export operations through Benapole Land Port after 6:00 pm, warning that the move will severely disrupt trade and business activities.
According to reports, the restriction was imposed by Benapole Customs in an effort to curb illegal goods infiltration and smuggling. However, DCCI said the decision—taken without prior consultation or notice—would have far-reaching consequences for cross-border trade, particularly with India, as Benapole is the country’s largest land port handling the bulk of bilateral commerce.
Citing data from the Bangladesh Land Port Authority, DCCI noted that during the 2024–25 fiscal year, the port handled 20,11,268 tonnes of imports and 4,21,713 tonnes of exports. The chamber warned that the abrupt suspension would cause significant financial losses for traders, reduce government revenue, and disrupt the supply chain.
The shortened operational hours have already left hundreds of trucks, including those carrying perishable goods, stranded on both sides of the border—raising risks of damage, wastage, and increased lead time in international trade, the chamber added.
While acknowledging the need to prevent illegal trade, DCCI stressed that such objectives should be achieved through coordinated action among port authorities and law enforcement agencies rather than by suspending legitimate trade operations.
Calling the decision “unacceptable,” DCCI urged the authorities to immediately withdraw the restrictions and ensure smooth, uninterrupted trade through Benapole Land Port to protect the country’s business and economic interests.