36 trucks carrying Bangladeshi ready-made garments (RMG) remain stuck at Benapole land port after India abruptly restricted imports of certain goods through land crossings. The move, effective immediately since Saturday, mandates that select RMG items previously cleared via land ports must now enter India exclusively through Kolkata or Mumbai’s Nhava Sheva seaports.
Kartik Chakraborty, secretary of Petrapole Clearing Agent Staff Welfare Association, confirmed that the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under India’s Commerce Ministry imposed the restrictions.
While consignments with existing Letters of Credit (LCs) or Telegraphic Transfers (TTs) are under negotiation with Indian customs for potential clearance, fresh shipments face uncertainty.
Benapole Importers and Exporters Association President Mohsin Milon reported the stranded trucks await clearance, with exporters fearing significant financial losses due to the sudden policy shift.
Port Deputy Director Mamun Kabir Tarafder stated the matter has been escalated to higher authorities.
The restrictions follow Bangladesh’s recent limitations on Indian cotton imports through seaports while keeping land ports closed, according to diplomatic sources. India’s DGFT issued an official notification outlining the revised import protocols.
Industry stakeholders now grapple with logistical disruptions and potential trade imbalances amid the evolving cross-border regulatory landscape.
