REFAYET ULLAH MIRDHA

The commerce ministry has convened an inter-ministerial meeting today to work out ways to address India’s restrictions on imports from Bangladesh through land ports.

Speaking to this correspondent over the phone yesterday, Md Abdur Rahim Khan, additional secretary (export) at the commerce ministry, said the government would take a decision in consultation with senior officials of the relevant ministries and departments on how to respond to the curbs on Indian port use for the shipment of Bangladeshi goods.

Meanwhile, Bangladeshi exporters remain anxious as goods-laden vehicles are still stranded at various land ports along the border.

Humayun Rashid, chairman of Energypac Fashions Ltd, said three trucks carrying garments for India have been waiting to be unloaded at Benapole land port since Saturday, when the restrictions were imposed.

“We are expecting a positive outcome within the next day or two, as my Indian importer has been working seriously to release the goods from the port,” he said, adding that he will decide on upcoming consignments to India in consultation with the importer.

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