As part of the ongoing movement by officials of the National Board of Revenue (NBR), a second consecutive day of the "complete shutdown" program is being observed on Sunday, bringing all import and export operations at the Chittagong port to a halt.
This has caused severe distress among businesses and led to container congestion at the port.
Since the start of the program on Sunday morning, cargo delivery operations from the port have nearly ceased. The customs assessment of import and export goods is also completely suspended.
Even previously assessed consignments are facing complications in being released.
As customs officials stationed at the port gates are refraining from scanning and inspecting goods, the port authorities are unable to release any cargo.
In this regard, Chittagong Custom House Deputy Commissioner Saidul Islam said: “Chittagong Customs officials and other related personnel are supporting the NBR officers’ program. As a result, no work is being carried out at Chittagong Customs.”
Saidul added: "Transportation of import and export containers to and from Chittagong port has also been entirely suspended. None of the 19 Inland Container Depots (ICDs) in Chittagong are sending export-laden containers to the port."
According to the NBR Reform Unity Council, starting Saturday, the complete shutdown program is in effect at all tax, customs, and VAT offices across the country. However, international passenger services will remain outside the purview of this program.
Simultaneously, a "peaceful March to NBR" is also being held from revenue offices nationwide.
Chittagong Port Authority Secretary Md Omar Faruk said that due to the program, customs officials are not working, which means import-laden containers cannot be delivered from the port. Export containers are also not arriving at the port.
