Bhomra Land Port’s six-month revenue falls short of target

Revenue realization at Bhomra Land Port in Satkhira has failed to achieve its target in the first six months of the current fiscal year 2017-18. According to the local Customs authorities, the revenue collection during the period fell short by Tk37.85 crore, as Tk380.23 crore has been realized against the target of Tk418.8 crore. Sources said the shortfall in six-month revenue collection would create a hindrance to meet the total target of Tk881.80 crore for FY18. According to the port Customs office, in July Bhomra realized revenue Tk49.2 crore against a target of Tk46.78 crore, in August it collected Tk61 crore against Tk38 crore, in September it collected Tk43.40 crore against a target of Tk39.79 crore, in October realized Tk57.97 crore against a target of Tk84.54 crore, in November Tk83.45 crore against Tk98.96 crore and in December Tk82.82 crore against Tk110.1 crore. Contacted, Bikash Barua, Assistant Revenue Officer (ARO) at Bhomra Customs Station told the Dhaka Tribune: “The Bhomra Land Port is one of the most promising ports in the country. Though we have missed the six-month revenue collection target, we will be able to meet the total fiscal’s target within the next six months.” Meanwhile, Mustafizur Rahman Nasim, the general secretary of the Clearing and Forwarding (C&F) Agent Association at the port said the revenue realization at the port is low because only some products are being imported through it. “If the Customs authorities give permission regarding import of all kinds of goods through the port, the revenue collection will increase dramatically,” Nasim said.