Apparel Sector Leaders Urge Interim Government to Maintain 24-Hour Operations at Chattogram Port

Strategic Insights -

Leaders of Bangladesh's apparel sector on Wednesday warned the interim government that failing to maintain 24-hour operations at the Chattogram port would lead to a crisis in the industry. The port's disrupted operations have caused delays in import and export activities, making it challenging for garment factory owners to pay wages to workers ahead of Eid-ul-Azha. Quazi Moniruzzaman, a former president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), expressed concerns that the situation could worsen if the port does not operate 24 hours a day. He emphasized that industry owners cannot take responsibility for paying garment workers if the port is not functional.

Key Takeaways:

  • The disruption at Chattogram port has caused delays in import and export activities, affecting the apparel industry's ability to pay wages to workers ahead of Eid-ul-Azha.
  • Quazi Moniruzzaman, a former BGMEA president, warned that the industry could face a crisis if the port does not operate 24 hours a day.
  • The interim government's decision to abolish the National Board of Revenue (NBR) has sparked strong reactions from revenue officials, causing disruptions to import and export activities.
  • Labour and Employment Adviser M Sakhawat Hossain announced that workers' dues would be paid shortly by selling the land, houses, factories, and other immovable properties owned by TNZ Group and Mahmud Group.
  • The Sammilita Parishad, a panel contesting the BGMEA election, unveiled a 12-point election manifesto that includes proposals for a dedicated SME cell, skill development of workers, and access to finance and markets.

Statistics:

  • 14 days: The time it takes for raw materials from China to arrive at the Chattogram port.
  • 18 days: The time it takes for goods shipped from Chattogram port to reach Dhaka.
  • 24 hours a day: The operating hours needed at the Chattogram port to ensure smooth import and export activities.

Sources:

  • Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA)
  • Sammilita Parishad
  • Labour and Employment Adviser M Sakhawat Hossain
  • Chaity Composite Ltd.