Dhaka, Oct 15 (V7N): Brigadier General (retd) M Shakhawat Hossain, the Shipping Adviser, announced today that the government plans to dismantle syndicates of middlemen that have been controlling the transportation of goods.

He stated that the Ministry of Shipping will soon release the Goods Transport Policy, 2024, emphasizing that its effective implementation will be ensured. This announcement was made during a meeting with a delegation from the Bangladesh Cargo Vessel Owners' Association at the ministry.

Hossain highlighted that approximately 80% of the country’s import and export activities rely on cost-effective sea transport, suggesting that these measures will promote progress within the shipping industry.

The adviser noted that necessary actions have been initiated to address challenges related to goods transport via waterways. He criticized the past 15 years of governance under the Awami League, claiming it has led to systemic failures across various sectors, including shipping. He accused some businesspeople of exploiting their positions through syndicates, resulting in chaos in the industry.

Expressing optimism for resolving ongoing maritime sector issues, including those affecting ports, Hossain addressed the problem of unfit vessels operating in the waterways, stating that legal actions would be pursued. He mentioned that the Coast Guard might be directed to conduct operations to identify such vessels.

During the meeting, representatives from the Bangladesh Cargo Vessel Owners' Association urged the shipping adviser to expedite the issuance and implementation of the Goods Transport Policy, 2024. They expressed hope for improvements in the maritime sector through coordinated efforts from all port authorities, including the Department of Shipping under the Ministry of Shipping.

Present at the meeting were Delwora Begum, Secretary of the Shipping Ministry, Sayeed Ahmed, President of the Association, and other leaders.

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