NBR rejects claims of restrictions on Benapole land port operation

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) on Sunday dismissed media reports claiming that customs authorities had imposed restrictions on import and export operations through the Benapole land port after 6:00 pm.

In a clarification, the NBR said no new order or restrictions had been imposed by the customs authorities regarding the entry or exit of goods through the country's largest land port.

"Import and export activities at Benapole are continuing as usual under the existing procedures," the statement reads.

The revenue board urged all stakeholders and service recipients not to be misled by such reports and to continue availing customs services at the port as before.

The NBR also called upon print and electronic media outlets to dispel confusion and present accurate information to the public.

Earlier in a press release, the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) has expressed deep concern over the suspension of trade operations through Benapole Land Port after 6:00 pm, calling for immediate withdrawal of the restriction to prevent disruption to bilateral trade and revenue losses.

The decision, reportedly taken by Benapole Customs to curb the infiltration of illegal goods and smuggling, was made without prior consultation with stakeholders, the DCCI said and warned that this could severely hamper trade activities at the country's largest land port.

When contacted, Benapole Customs Commissioner Khaled Mohammad Abu Hossain also rejected the claim, saying that there is a propaganda about the suspension of the port's activities, which is 'completely baseless'.

"If it were true, it would require an official order. However, no one has been able to present such an order to support this claim," he told The Financial Express.

"I joined nearly three months ago, and our operations have been continuing as per the usual routine. We are working closely with the port authority," he added.

He further mentioned that the port has been making continuous efforts to facilitate business, which largely depends on cooperation from their counterparts on the Indian side.

"The Indian side starts work late, which is why their trucks arrive at Benapole in the afternoon. If they could start earlier in the morning, it would help us provide better service," Abu Hossain said.

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