Bangladesh crisis slows down garment transshipment from Delhi

Consignments that were stuck at the India-Bangladesh border are now en route to Delhi and the airport operator has chalked out plans for quick processing of goods for their re-export.

The peak season for garment exports runs from August to December and then from February to March every year. Delhi Airport registered a 25 per cent growth in ready-made garment exports in the first quarter of FY25. These included exports from both India and Bangladesh. The increase was driven by a shift of some trade from sea to air due to the Red Sea crisis and an increase in Indian exports due to a shift of orders from Bangladesh.

 “We are continuously in touch with our partners in Bangladesh and evaluating the situation. We are in touch with the Land Port Authority of India, Petrapole, West Bengal to help trade with streamlining of the supply chain disruptions,” DIAL said.

The airport said it has chalked out plans for the swift processing of cargo upon its arrival in Delhi by road. Additionally, to manage increased volumes, the airport has installed two additional X-ray machines and opened extra truck docks.

The Union Textile Ministry has also held discussions with Indian exporters about capitalising on business opportunities as brands seek to reduce their exposure to Bangladesh. The recent protests have also disrupted air cargo movements from Bangladesh, leading to increasing processing times and rates. However, the situation is now improving.

“While we experienced some disruptions we’ve resolved them, and our operations are now running smoothly,” said Tarun Patwary, country manager (Bangladesh) of global freight forwarder Kuehne+Nagel.