Apparel makers have alleged that delay releasing imported goods by the customs at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) is seriously affecting the whole garment export supply chain. “We are not receiving our imported raw materials in time due to overall security measures taken by the airport authority and lack of coordination among different agencies including civil aviation, customs and Biman involved with the process,” Md Siddiqur Rahman, president of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), told reporters at the association’s headquarters in the city on Saturday. Apparel exporters have to import many accessories including ‘price’ and ‘security’ tags selected by buyers and raw materials such as fabrics and product samples for completing export orders, he explained. But in recent times especially since the beginning of the current month, he said, they were facing difficulties in getting their required imported consignments. In some cases, it took more than two weeks compared to a single day, needed previously, while some containers went missing, the BGMEA president claimed. Their clearing and forwarding agents are allowed up to certain point at the airport over security reasons, he said, adding that as a result they are not being able to identify products. Besides, imported goods are being kept under open sky. Imported raw materials worth millions of taka were getting damaged as the apparel makers are not being able to receive their required imported goods in time, Mr Rahman observed. He added: “We import raw materials and make final shipments through air mainly to meet the lead time if shipment is delayed or there is urgency from buyers.” Though the volume was not large, the impact was serious as it was not possible for them to make the whole shipment. “If one item is left, it disrupts the overall supply chain.” He also said, “We are not against any measures taken over security grounds, but we want our products within 24 hours after the arrival of air cargo.” Talking to the FE, Sheikh Md Farid, president of Dhaka Customs Agents Association, admitted that clearing and forwarding agents were not allowed to go for cartons or containers’ identification over security grounds. And there was also scarcity of open space for keeping imported materials, he said, adding that this also resulted in disruption in import-export activities. When contacted, Lutfur Rahman, commissioner of Dhaka Customs responsible for the clearance process, denied the allegation of lack of coordination with other agencies and said none had formally made any complaints. Officials, however, said security measures so far taken were appropriate and all should appreciate them.
