The Benapole Customs House has recently issued an order detailing 11 conditions that businesses must comply with for exports and imports through the port from January 12 onwards.

The customs office also listed 12 types of imported goods as sensitive and high-risk for customs evasion, making physical inspections mandatory for them.

The customs house implemented these measures as part of efforts to expedite import-export activities, reduce processing time, and foster a taxpayer-friendly environment while curbing tax evasion, according to the order signed by Customs Commissioner Md Kamruzzaman on January 6.

The goods identified in the order include assorted items, all types of clothing, new and used motor parts (two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers), bike parts, electronics, electrical products, cosmetics, imitation jewelry, machinery and parts imported under commercial concessions, industrial sector parts, medical equipment, surgical supplies, and mixed consignments.

The order instructed officials to review the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) — a computer system that helps manage information for international trade — and conduct regular inspections of high-risk institutions, harmonized system codes, and product consignments.

Officials were also directed to collect data on clearance processes, monitor revenue collection, uncover irregularities, and take legal action to prevent smuggling.

The customs house has also decided to implement additional measures, including the submission of the import general manifest and the Bill of Entry lock, based on information from the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Directorate and other agencies.

Regarding exports, shipments valued at over $40,000 or containing more than 20,000 pieces of ready-made garments like shirts, pants, t-shirts, and undergarments will undergo mandatory physical inspections to verify consistency with declared goods.

These directives will remain effective until further notice for Benapole Port, which handles 80 percent of imports from India via land ports and facilitates exports to both India and third countries through Indian transit routes.