DHAKA: The Cabinet gave its final nod to the draft of the Bangladesh Flag Vessels (Protection) Bill 2019 with a provision stating that at least 50 percent cargoes relating to Bangladesh’s foreign trade must be carried by BSC flag vessels. 

Cabinet Secretary Mohammad Shafiul Alam was briefing reporters at the Secretariat after the regular cabinet meeting held with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the chair at her office in Tejgaon on Monday (Jan 28). 

Under the present rules, vessels of Bangladesh Shipping Corporation can transport at least 40 percent of the overseas cargos.

The present ordinance and rules is being amended to give protection to Bangladeshi flag vessels to carry at least 50 per cent instead of the existing 40 percent of cargoes. 

If vessel carries cargos violating the law, the maximum Tk five lakh will be fined.

The provisions of the appeal have been enacted in the bill, which will be settled within 30 days. 

Flag ships are meant to any ship registered by Bangladesh government.

BDST: 1640 HRS, June 24, 2019
RS/SMS