Tariff-free Indian rice imports begin with 105-tonne shipment

Benapole port receives the first consignment, with more expected soon

The import of rice from India has resumed after Bangladesh fully lifted import duties.

The first consignment of 105 tonnes of rice entered Bangladesh on Monday morning via Benapole Land Port in Jashore.

“The importing company, Mahabubul Alam Food Products, brought rice from West Bengal’s Sudharm Ayatniryat Private Limited,” said Abu Taher, a revenue officer at Benapole Customs House’s cargo branch.

The shipment, which arrived in three trucks, consisted of non-Basmati rice and was cleared through customs by Hossain & Sons, a clearing and forwarding (C&F) agent.

Ziaur Rahman, a representative of the agent, said: “The imported rice is valued at at $45,150, equivalent to Tk 5.41 million. This sets the price at nearly Tk 52 per kg. After adding transport, port fees, and other expenses, the final cost will be Tk 55 per kg.”

Kazi Ratan, deputy director (traffic) at the port, said the clearance process had been expedited to ensure swift delivery of the rice.

Authorities also confirmed that an additional 105 tonnes of rice from the same importer is expected to arrive soon. Another 100-tonne consignment from Ark Trading is also awaiting clearance.

The removal of import duties is part of an effort to control rising rice prices in Bangladesh’s local market.

With India also removing price restrictions on rice exports, imports are expected to increase.

The importers are hopeful that this will help bring rice prices under control in the domestic market soon.