CCCI proposes task force for regular supply of consumer goods 

Chattogram Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCCI) President Mahbubul Alam has proposed a taskforce be formed to ensure an uninterrupted supply of essential goods and import-export activities.

He made a six-point proposal in this regard in a letter sent to the prime minister's principal secretary and the cabinet secretary on Friday.

Urging the government to keep necessary offices open on a limited scale, the CCCI president proposed the formation of a task force comprised of: the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Shipping, the Ministry of Agriculture, Bangladesh Bank, the Office of Chief Controller of Imports and Exports, and the National Board of Revenue.

He said such a task force will be effective in running import-export operations to maintain an uninterrupted supply of goods in the present situation.

The CCCI said it is necessary to keep the Office of Chief Controller of Imports and Exports, along with its offices in Dhaka and Chattogram, operational – so that the importers can obtain necessary approval and documents on time.

Ensuring an uninterrupted supply of fuel across the country through the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation and companies operating under it – like the Padma Oil Company, Meghna Oil Company, Jamuna Oil Company, Eastern Refinery, and LP Gas Limited – is also necessary to produce and distribute gas and power across the country.

The CCCI said transportation of goods across the country has not been halted, so keeping the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority offices open is also necessary for the registration and renewal of necessary documents for the vehicles. 

The chamber also said service providers and industries need environmental clearances from the authorities concerned, so, the offices concerned need to remain open on a limited scale.

Currently many containers are stuck at Chattogram Port because of different problems. Many ships are being forced to stay at the port longer as there is not enough space for the containers. The importers' expenses are increasing because of this as they have to pay demurrage charges. It is necessary to take steps to discharge these containers at the port quickly.