Chattogram Port has been pushed to the brink of a complete standstill as customs officials launched a nationwide shutdown program today, severely disrupting import-export activities.
Since 6am on Saturday, cargo unloading at the port has nearly halted, with customs clearance for both imports and exports grinding to a stop. All port operations – from customs documentation to cargo release – require customs approval, leaving the port inoperative amid the protest.
Customs and tax offices across Bangladesh began an indefinite shutdown today, demanding comprehensive revenue sector reforms with multi-party participation and the removal of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) chairman.
Chattogram Port, handling over 90% of Bangladesh’s trade, faces the worst impact.
With no immediate resolution in sight, traders fear prolonged disruptions could cripple supply chains and escalate economic losses.
Stakeholders have urged urgent negotiations to avert a full-blown trade deadlock.
