Ban on yarn entry via five key land ports

Staff Reporter :

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has imposed restrictions on the import of yarn through land ports, with immediate effect, in a move aimed at protecting the domestic textile and spinning sectors.

According to a notification issued on 13 April, the NBR has suspended yarn imports through the Benapole, Bhomra, Banglabandha, Burimari, and Sonamasjid land ports.

The decision follows a recent recommendation from the Ministry of Commerce, which cited concerns over the negative impact of rising yarn imports on local textile millers.

The ministry noted that domestic manufacturers are struggling to compete, as importers often declare lower values for consignments brought in through land ports compared to those entering via the Chattogram seaport.

This recommendation was made after repeated appeals from local textile producers, who argued that the influx of cheaper imported yarn was causing significant financial losses.

The government had originally permitted yarn imports through land ports in January 2023 to address an unexpected surge in demand following the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the situation has since changed, prompting a policy reversal to protect the competitiveness of the domestic industry.

In a related development, India last week revoked the transshipment facility for Bangladesh’s export cargo destined for third countries via Indian land borders to its airports and seaports. The move adds a new layer of logistical challenge for exporters navigating regional trade dynamics.

Industry insiders and trade experts are closely monitoring the implications of both developments, as Bangladesh’s textile and apparel sectors remain critical contributors to the national economy.