Stop Bangladesh Exports Via Delhi Air Cargo Complex: AEPC

The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) has appealed to the Indian government to suspend transshipment of Bangladesh export cargo to third countries via Delhi Air Cargo complex.

Earlier, such transhipment of Bangladesh export cargo was allowed only via Kolkata Air Cargo Complex, AEPC said.

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) had issued a circular dated February 7, 2023 permitting the transshipment of Bangladesh export cargo via Delhi Air Cargo complex.

“The continuing Red Sea crisis had raised logistical costs for exporters while leading to a shift in the mode of shipping consignments from sea to air,” Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman of AEPC said.

“Permitting Bangladeshi cargo transshipment from Delhi Air Cargo Terminal at this juncture had only increased logistical challenges and transportation costs for Indian apparel exporters,” he added.

Sekhri alleged that almost 20-30 loaded trucks from Bangladesh arrive in New Delhi every day slowing down cargo movement and the airlines were taking undue advantage of this.

“It had led to a steep rise in air-freight rates, delayed handling and processing of export cargo and congestion at the cargo terminal,” he stated.