India has imposed new restrictions on imports from Bangladesh through its land ports, significantly impacting key sectors like garments, agro-processed foods, furniture, and plastic goods. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) announced that garment imports—Bangladesh’s largest export to India—will now be allowed only through Kolkata and Nhava Sheva sea ports, bypassing land ports that previously handled the bulk of such trade.
This move is expected to disrupt trade flows, increase shipping times, and raise costs for Indian importers. Former BGMEA President Anwar-Ul-Alam Chowdhury labeled the decision a “non-tariff barrier” that could harm competitiveness due to delayed delivery timelines. Other affected items include fruits, processed foods, cotton waste, PVC goods, and wooden furniture, which can no longer enter India through land ports in Assam, Tripura, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and certain West Bengal crossings. However, fish, LPG, edible oil, and crushed stone are exempt. Exports to Nepal and Bhutan via India remain unaffected.
Business leaders expressed concern over the sudden implementation. RFL Group’s MD RN Paul said the move could severely impact plastic and confectionery exports, urging swift adaptation and exploration of alternative routes. Knitwear exporters and furniture producers also warned of operational challenges and rising costs.
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