Garment manufacturers and exporters have voiced concern over realisation of enhanced detention and demurrage charges by shipping agents and main line operators (MLOs) while delivering containers after free time. BGMEA leaders told the Port Users Forum (PUF) on Thursday that the MLOs are charging different enhanced rates at whim. The Mark Line is charging $ 9 for a container for the first seven days after specific time while GP Shipping $ 10, APL $ 9 and NYK $ 3. They said the importers are incurring financial losses. The MLOs are also claiming different charges such as documentation charge, administrative charge, hook point charge, survey and clearing charges as there are no uniform rates. They sought interference of the PUF in this regard and demanded fixing uniform rates of detention or demurrage charges. The PUF meeting was held at the conference hall of Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) on Thursday evening. MA Latif MP, also a member of the Standing Committee on the Ministry of Shipping, attended the meeting as the chief guest.
