No Major Issues Expected from India’s Transshipment Suspension: Trade Advisor

Staff Correspondent

Trade Advisor Sheikh Bashiruddin stated that India’s sudden suspension of transshipment facilities would not cause significant disruptions in Bangladesh.

Responding to journalists’ questions at the Secretariat on Thursday, he said, “We do not foresee a crisis. Measures are being taken to ensure smooth communication and uninterrupted export activities. We expect to address the situation promptly.”

He mentioned that discussions with stakeholders have already taken place, and plans for potential actions are being formulated, though specific steps were not disclosed at this time.

The advisor explained, “The challenges are partly infrastructural and partly cost-related. We aim to enhance our capacity by addressing these issues.”

When asked about the potential impact on exports, he said, “Approximately 40,000 to 50,000 tons of goods were exported via Indian routes to ports like Delhi and Kolkata. We believe this issue can be resolved by strengthening our internal management.”

Regarding whether any formal message would be sent to India, Sheikh Bashiruddin replied, “The government currently has no such plans.”

On the topic of the U.S. tariff benefit reinstatement, he commented, “This is undoubtedly positive news. It will bring stability to the country’s trade sector.”

He also noted that a virtual meeting between Bangladesh and the United States Trade Representative (USTR) was held on Wednesday, focusing on improving bilateral trade relations. He added that a Bangladeshi delegation would soon visit the U.S. to present Bangladesh’s stance on various issues.