India has introduced new restrictions on imports from Bangladesh, targeting several categories of goods that will no longer be allowed entry via land routes. The move applies specifically to ready-made garments, carbonated drinks, cotton yarn waste, processed foods, and wooden furniture. These items will now be permitted only through two designated seaports, effectively limiting their access via border crossings of Changrabanda and Fulbari.The decision comes amid concerns over trade imbalances and unequal access to markets. While Bangladesh continues to enjoy unrestrained access to India’s northeastern states, Indian exports face high transit charges and regulatory hurdles when routed through Bangladesh.
The imbalance, sources say had led to an unhealthy dependency on Bangladeshi imports and stunted the growth of domestic manufacturing in border regions. By enforcing these restrictions, India aims to get on a level playing field, particularly for northeastern states that have been affected by limited access to the Bangladeshi market.
The rerouting of Bangladeshi exports through the Siliguri Corridor is expected to standardise logistics and reduce Bangladesh’s selective advantage in accessing Indian territory.Also read | Bangladesh interim govt pushing to bring back Sheikh Hasina from India: Home AdviserThe measures are also seen as a response to Bangladesh’s imposition of unilateral restrictions on Indian goods, despite several bilateral agreements intended to facilitate smoother trade relations. Officials assert that Bangladesh cannot selectively benefit from agreements while limiting reciprocal access for Indian goods.The port-only rule is aimed at commodities that can be manufactured locally to strengthen India’s self-reliance and promote domestic industries. Nonetheless, Bangladesh’s exports to Nepal and Bhutan, which transit through Indian territory, will continue unaffected, indicating that the curbs are selectively applied to ensure fairness in direct bilateral trade.Also read | India scraps cargo transshipment route for Bangladesh, impacting regional tradeIndia has expressed openness to engaging in dialogue with Bangladesh to address the ongoing issues. However, the responsibility to foster a collaborative trade environment lies with Bangladesh, particularly in honouring the terms of existing bilateral commitments and avoiding protectionist practices.(Edited by : Jerome Anthony)First Published: May 17, 2025 9:40 PM IST
