BGMEA has opposed the 22 per cent hike in different container handling charges raised by private inland container depots (ICDs) as it would increase their costs sharply affecting the export activities at a time when the sector is passing a tough time. The association also stated that the private ICDs/off/-dock operators cannot collect the enhanced charges without the ministry’s approval.

On December 12, Bangladesh Inland Container Depots Association (BICDA) increased empty container handling charges and export goods stuffing package charges by 22 per cent and instructed all the private ICDs to collect the enhanced rates from January 01, 2020. Under the enhanced charges, for a 20 ft. export container the package (stuffing) costs have increased to Tk 4,390 from Tk 3,600 and the ground rent has gone up to TK 125 from Tk 100 per day. Landing charges have risen to Tk 220 from Tk 180 per tonne and CFS storage charges after seven days have increased to Tk 30 from Tk 25 and the per container VGM charge to Tk 1,220 from Tk 1,000. For a 20-ft. empty export container, the charges for per day ground rent, lift on/off, documentation charges and one-way transportation/haulage have increased by Tk 22, Tk 66, Tk 52 and Tk 220 respectively.