Bangladesh expands goods list for movement via private ICDs, off-docks

‘Off-dock’ here refers to facilities or container yards located away from the main port terminal.

It approved 27 new categories of import items in two phases: 12 categories on April 8 this year, and 15 more on July 17. These are in addition to the 38 categories allowed earlier.

The aim is to streamline import-export operations and ease congestion at the Chattogram Port.

NBR intermittently updates the list of import goods permitted for off-dock handling based on real-time operational needs and stakeholder input.

With this, a total of 65 types of import goods are now permitted to be transferred, unstuffed and delivered through 19 operational ICDs and off-docks across Chattogram, according to domestic media outlets.

NBR believes the decision will allow private ICDs to utilise their full capacity, significantly reduce cargo congestion at the main port and accelerate imported goods clearance.

ALCHEMPro News Desk (DS)