The Shippers' Council of Bangladesh has expressed concerns about container congestions at various ports caused by disruptions from recent anti-quota protests and curfew imposed by the government, says a press release.
At an emergency meeting on Friday, the Board of Directors of the Shippers' Council also demanded that the government waive additional port charges, shipping demurrage/detention charges and other surcharges for one month, as the goods could not be released on time because of disruptions.
Md Rezaul Karim, Chairman of the Shippers Council, said the country's import-export activities and industrial factories have come to a standstill since July 18 in the wake of anti-quota protests. As the importers could not release the goods in time, there has been a container jam at airports, sea ports and land ports. Thousands of cargo trucks have also remained stuck in the land ports.
And due to the delays, importers have to pay various surcharges, including additional port charges and shipping demurrage charges, he said, adding that this will increase the cost of goods, which will eventually be passed on to the consumer.
On the other hand, exporters are facing severe financial losses as they are unable to ship the goods, he said.
At the meeting, the Board of Directors also called on the institutions concerned, including shipping agents, freight forwarders, clearing houses, logistics companies and customs authorities to facilitate unhindered import-export activities and ensure highest level of service.
Shippers' Council urges waiver of port surcharges
FE Team | Published: July 27, 2024 22:31:32
Shippers' Council urges waiver of port surcharges
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