Shipping department urges stakeholders to comply with regulations on sanctioned vessels, cargoes
The report revealed that some operators in Bangladesh have been importing Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) from Iran, a sanctioned country, using fake documents
The Department of Shipping, under the Ministry of Shipping, has urged all maritime stakeholders to strictly follow international and national regulations concerning sanctioned vessels and cargoes.
The circular comes a day after The Business Standard published an investigative report titled "How cheaper LPG import from sanctioned Iran is rattling the market".
The report revealed that some operators in Bangladesh have been importing Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) from Iran, a sanctioned country, using fake documents.
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According to the circular, signed by the Director General of Shipping Commodore Mohammad Maksud Alam, all entities operating within Bangladesh's waters and ports are prohibited from engaging with vessels under sanctions imposed by the United Nations, the United States, the European Union, or other relevant national or international authorities.
It warns that vessels involved in trade with sanctioned countries or entities pose serious risks to national security and could damage the reputation of Bangladesh's maritime sector.
The directive also bans the loading, unloading, transit, or storage of sanctioned cargo within Bangladesh's jurisdiction. This includes goods subject to trade restrictions or embargoes due to international sanctions.
The circular also warns that any violation of these rules will result in severe penalties, including fines, suspension of operating licences, and possible criminal charges.
The shipping department urged all stakeholders to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving vessels or cargo connected to sanctioned entities or countries.
It emphasised cooperation among all parties to safeguard the security and reputation of Bangladesh's maritime operations.
"Maritime operators are expected to adhere strictly to these directives, as any failure to comply will not be tolerated. Stakeholders can contact the Shipping Department for further clarification or additional information," the circular reads.
