This would raise the cost of export-import trade through ICDs and may weaken their global competitiveness, particularly in price-sensitive sectors like garments.
Inland container depot (ICD) operators in Bangladesh recently announced an 8.5-per cent increase in container handling charges, citing higher fuel costs triggered by the Middle East conflict.
The revised surcharge took effect from April 19.
This would raise the cost of export-import trade through ICDs and may weaken their global competitiveness, particularly in price-sensitive sectors like garments.
A Bangladesh Inland Container Depots Association (BICDA) circular said the revised surcharge took effect from April 19, following a 15-per cent increase in diesel prices.
The revised charges apply across several services integral to container handling outside the port. These include transportation of empty containers between Chattogram Port and inland depots, haulage between Patenga Container Terminal and ICDs, and lift-on and lift-off services.
Export-related handling, such as container stuffing and verified gross mass (VGM) procedures, will also be subject to the increased rates, a domestic media outlet reported.
On the import side, delivery packages covering transportation, unloading and final delivery from depots are included in the surcharge. Importers may also face higher landed costs of goods, which could eventually be passed on to consumers, adding to inflationary pressure in the domestic market.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
