Khasru warns port officials of stern action for harassing importers

Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury on Tuesday said that if any official or employee at Chattogram Port harasses importers, stern actions will be taken against them if the accusations are proven.

The minister made the remarks in a written response to a question from Member of Parliament Md. Abdullah during a session of the National Parliament. The session was presided over by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikram.

In his question, Md. Abdullah stated that a section of dishonest customs officials and employees at Chattogram Port allegedly harass importers in various ways by subjecting goods to re-inspection even after they have already undergone 100 per cent examination.

He asked whether any plans would be undertaken to protect importers from such harassment and, if so, when those measures would be implemented.

In response, the Finance Minister said that to prevent such harassments, a Customs Risk Management Commissionerate has been established, and initiatives have been taken to launch its operations from July of the upcoming fiscal year.

He explained that once implemented, the system will enable the selection of goods for inspection through an automated process based on risk criteria, without human intervention.

At the same time, the Risk Management Module of the ASYCUDA World system has already been upgraded to make automated risk management more modern and effective.

Amir Khasru also said if allegations of harassment or irregularities against any official or employee are proven, departmental action will be taken in accordance with existing laws and regulations.

 JB/IF