Expedite RMG-related bond activities

CHITTAGONG, Aug 13: BGMEA first vice president Nasiruddin Ahmed Chowdhury has urged the authorities concerned to facilitate quick approval of the bond-related files in the Chittagong Customs Bond Commissionerate (CCBC).

He said this in a meeting with CCBC Commissioner Dr Abdul Mannan Sikder at the latter's office Tuesday.

He also urged them to ease annual audit activities, release indemnity bond and replace old machinery in the Commissionerate, and approval of bond transfer on the same day to go for sub-contract with factories in the export processing zones (EPZs).

The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) leader said local garment industry is passing hard times now. Many RMG factories are facing closure following the visits of the US-based Accord and the EU-based Alliance inspection teams on compliance-related issues.

The vulnerable factories have been closed by the Department of Factories, following recommendations of these inspection teams.

He also said flow of orders from buyers has fallen significantly due to gas and electricity supply shortage as well as lack of other infrastructure facilities faced by the industry.

He emphasised enhancing cooperation to the readymade garment (RMG) exporters, who have been earning good name for the country from abroad.

Subsequently, the commissioner instructed the officials concerned to release files as soon as possible, so that the RMG businesses do not face unnecessary hassle.

He urged them to update audit reports of the garment industry quickly, and extend all-out cooperation to relocate the factories that have been closed due to inspection by the Accord and the Alliance.

BGMEA directors Abdul Wahab, Anjan Shekhor Das and MDM Mohiuddin Chowdhury, and former first vice presidents Moinuddin Ahmed Mintu and Nasir Uddin Chowdhury, and CCBC joint commissioner Mahmudul Hasan and assistant commissioner Binode Behari Bhowmik were present on the occasion.