Exporting dangerous goods products to Bangladesh through the main port of Chittagong is becoming increasingly difficult in the wake of last month’s explosion in Beirut.

Right now, it seems that Bangladesh Customs and the Bangladesh Navy are at odds over the presence of dangerous goods products on the dock, following the disaster at the Lebanese port.

The navy are insisting that dangerous goods products are moved immediately to importers premises upon discharging, but customs are insisting they need time to physically inspect them first.

The catch-22 has led to the port’s refusal to unload many dangerous goods containers in recent weeks, with some shipments being returned to the origin country.

Bangladesh has a high demand for dangerous goods products, including refrigerant, air conditioning gases and chemicals, which are now in short supply.

Carriers are now being expected to guarantee that containers will be moved off quay within 72 hours, before discharging dangerous goods products. This may result in shipping lines developing a reluctance to accept dangerous goods products destined for Bangladesh while the issues are ongoing.

Evolution Forwarding specialise in the movement of dangerous goods internationally, by air, ocean and road. We provide a complete solution which includes packing, documentation, compliance and training for dangerous goods products. For further information please email info@evolutionforwarding.com or call 0800 4346244.