admin
The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has announced that all customs houses and stations will remain operational from June 5 to 14, excluding Eid day, to facilitate uninterrupted import-export activities ahead of Eid-ul-Azha.
The move comes in response to a formal request from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), which highlighted the critical need for continuous port operations to meet export deadlines in the ready-made garment (RMG) sector.
In a letter to the NBR on May 14, BGMEA administrator Md Anwar Hossain warned that any delays could result in lost foreign exchange earnings and missed payment deadlines.
Former BGMEA president Kazi Muniruzzaman added that factory owners might be unable to pay workers’ wages and bonuses on time if port operations are disrupted.
The RMG sector is currently grappling with challenges such as US counter-tariffs, rising input costs, labour unrest, energy shortages, and high transport expenses.
Despite these hurdles, exporters have maintained steady orders from global buyers.
BGMEA urged coordinated support from customs, ports, banks, and the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) to ensure timely shipment. The NBR’s directive, including continued operations at Chittagong Custom House, is expected to help sustain export momentum during the Eid season.
