Hili Port trade rebounds with rising exports, earnings

Hili Land Port in the district has witnessed a significant surge in exports, leading to a notable rise in government revenue. 

Since June 30 of the current fiscal year, exports of domestic goods to India have gained momentum, marking a turnaround for the port that had seen limited outbound trade in recent years.

According to Assistant Commissioner of Hili Customs ASM Akram Samrat, a total of 2,091 tons of goods were exported to India between June and August 20. These exports generated US$ 1.71 million, equivalent to approximately Taka 20 crore in revenue for the Bangladesh government.

While Hili Port has traditionally been import-bound, the recent uptick in demand for Bangladeshi products in India has shifted the balance. Currently, about 70 percent of goods traded through the port are imports, but the export share is steadily climbing.

Popular export items include rice bran oil, toast biscuits, mango juice, jhut fabric, noodles, and various bakery products. Indian importers are increasingly sourcing these goods through Hili, signaling growing cross-border commercial interest.

President of Hili C&F Agents Association Ferdous Rahman said that the port, Bangladesh's second-largest land port, is now contributing more robustly to foreign exchange earnings. He noted that the export boom is also creating employment opportunities for local workers. 

Port traders, however, said that the volume of exports could increase further if certain internal issues in India are resolved. 

Revenue Officer of Hili Customs Md. Nizam Uddin said that although exports had been halted through this port for a long time, various goods are now being exported to India. The Customs Department is providing all kinds of support to exporters for the export of domestic products, he added.