Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has urged the government to keep key trade facilitation services operational during the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr holidays to ensure uninterrupted export shipments.
In a letter sent to the chairman of the National Board of Revenue (NBR), the apparel industry body requested that all customs houses and relevant bank branches remain open from March 17 to March 23, except on the day of Eid, to facilitate export-import operations.
BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan said the readymade garment (RMG) sector operates under strict global fashion cycles and delivery schedules, making timely shipment critical for maintaining business relationships with international buyers.
He noted that failing to meet buyers’ delivery deadlines could result in order cancellations and financial losses for manufacturers, while also affecting Bangladesh’s export earnings and long-term credibility in global markets.
“In the current global economic climate, missing shipment deadlines not only causes losses for entrepreneurs but also results in the country losing valuable foreign exchange and the trust of international buyers,” he said.
Under the proposal, BGMEA requested that the following institutions continue operations during the holiday period:
• Chittagong custom house and other land and sea customs stations
• Relevant bank branches handling export-import documentation
• Offices of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB)
Industry insiders said that in previous years, keeping ports, customs offices and banks open during major holidays significantly helped exporters maintain shipment schedules and avoid disruptions in the supply chain.
BGMEA emphasized that smooth coordination between ports, customs authorities and banking institutions is essential for sustaining export activities, particularly at a time when the global apparel market is facing volatility and increased competition.
Industry representatives warned that maintaining uninterrupted logistics and documentation services during the festive break will be crucial to protecting Bangladesh’s position as one of the world’s leading apparel exporters.
