Import and export activities through Teknaf Land Port in Cox’s Bazar have been suspended for the past 12 days, causing significant disruptions to trade. A wide range of goods, including perishable items, are currently stranded at the port premises, leaving traders deeply concerned about potential losses. They have appealed to the Deputy Commissioner to urgently normalise import and export operations.  Ehtashamul Haque Bahadur, General Secretary of the Teknaf C&F Agent Association, confirmed the ongoing suspension. He stated that trade between Bangladesh and Myanmar via Teknaf Land Port has been stalled since April 13. As a result, a substantial volume of perishable and exportable goods remains stuck at the port, severely hampering business operations.  Among the affected Bangladeshi exports are potatoes (a perishable item), cement (which hardens due to weather exposure), soft drinks, and other products currently stockpiled at the port. Similarly, various importable goods from Myanmar are also stranded on the other side of the border, unable to enter Bangladesh on time. This delay is causing significant financial losses for businesses on both sides.  

The General Secretary of the Teknaf C&F Agents Association further highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that an application was submitted on behalf of the Teknaf Importers and Exporters Association to the Cox’s Bazar District Commissioner on Wednesday. The appeal requests the swift normalization of import-export activities to ensure the smooth flow of goods and mitigate further losses.  

Jasim Uddin, General Manager of Teknaf Land Port, explained that the suspension is due to the actions of the Arakan Army, a rebel organisation in Myanmar. 

Goods belonging to traders at Teknaf Land Port have been stuck in warehouses for 12 days, leading to mounting concerns. On one hand, traders are bearing the brunt of the disruption, while on the other, the government is losing crores of taka in potential revenue.  

The prolonged suspension has created uncertainty and anxiety among traders, who fear severe financial repercussions if the situation is not resolved soon. Efforts to address the issue and restore normalcy at the port remain critical to safeguarding both business interests and national economic stability.