The role of multimodal transport in Bangladesh for export promotion

The exports of Bangladesh have dramatically changed recently due to diversification of items. More than 60% of the total export share was contributed by jute in the early eighties. This scenario is now totally changed. Non-traditional items, such as ready-made garments, leather goods (shoes), knitwear, handicraft are now dominating factors in the exports of Bangladesh. More than 60% of the export share are now contributed by ready-made garments. Traditional goods are basically transported through break-bulk carrier. Non-Traditional goods are basically transported through container. Due to advent of containerisation multimodal transport has created a new era in international trade. It has two advantages; a) door-to-door service and b) just in time service. Exporters of the Bangladesh take the MT as a strategic logistic tool. With the help of MT they reduce their inventory cost in the port area and at the same time they deliver their goods just in time to the buyer\u27s desire place. Bangladesh has two sea-ports; Chittagong and Mongla. 80% of the total trade and 90% of the export of the country are now going through these ports. In 1987, by the help of railway, the country’s first inland clearance depots (ICD) was established in the Dhaka region, because 90% of the manufactured goods exporting industries are located in the Dhaka region. This ICD links with Chittagong port. Exporters already show their keen interest for using ICD. For minimising the transport cost, Govt. of Bangladesh has a plan to establish another ICD in the Dhaka region with the help of inland waterways. After the completion of this inland container port, the competition will rise between the railway and inland waterway, which is ultimately favourable for the exporter giving a better choice of mode of transport