B Mirror Report: Garment exporters have requested the government to keep customs stations and related bank branches open during the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr holidays to ensure the smooth flow of export trade.

The request includes keeping Chattogram Custom House and all other customs stations across the country operational from March 17 to March 23, including weekly and government holidays, except for the Eid day.

The appeal was made in a letter recently sent to the Chairman of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) by the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA).

According to sources, the request was made by BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan in a formal letter.

NBR officials said the ready-made garment (RMG) sector is highly dependent on fashion trends and strict delivery timelines. Failure to ship goods within the deadline set by foreign buyers may lead to cancellation of export orders.

Such cancellations could cause significant financial losses for entrepreneurs and result in the country losing valuable foreign currency earnings.

The letter also noted that amid the current global economic uncertainties, continuous support from ports, customs authorities and banks is essential to maintain the momentum of export trade.

BGMEA urged the authorities to keep customs stations, bank branches and the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) operational during the specified period to ensure timely shipment of export goods.

Garment sector entrepreneurs said maintaining export capacity would not be possible without the cooperation of all related institutions. They warned that failure to meet shipment deadlines could not only cancel export orders but also damage long-term confidence among foreign buyers.

BGMEA also expressed gratitude for similar support provided in previous years, when customs and port operations continued during Eid holidays, helping ensure uninterrupted garment exports. The association hopes for the same level of cooperation this year as well.