Dual delivery system introduced for AEO-recognised businesses

FE REPORT

Chittagong Customs House (CCH) has introduced a dual delivery system, allowing businesses with a compliant import-export record to release imported raw materials and other goods from both customs houses and off-dock facilities.

The system is available only to businesses recognised as Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) by the National Board of Revenue (NBR), in recognition of their compliance. CCH issued an order on Monday to implement the long-awaited dual delivery system.

Currently, 10 large manufacturers benefit from the AEO programme, which allows them to release 20 per cent of their imported goods through the green channel without physical inspection.

The new arrangement aims to address delays often faced by AEOs in obtaining fast release of goods from ports, especially during congestion, when private inland container depots (ICDs) are sometimes preferred.

Under AEO Rules-2024, customs has committed to fully implementing the dual delivery option.

"This new arrangement allows AEOs to release their goods from both ports and private depots. It will expedite container delivery and significantly enhance the ease of doing business," wrote Tarek Mahmud, deputy commissioner of CCH, in a LinkedIn post.

Currently, companies enjoying AEO benefits include Square Pharmaceuticals, Incepta Pharmaceuticals, Fair Electronics, Toa Personal Protective Devices, ACI Godrej Agrovet Pvt Ltd, GPH Ispat Ltd, Bangladesh Steel Re-rolling Mills Ltd, Popular Pharmaceuticals, Berger Paints, and Unilever Bangladesh.

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