Trade grinds to halt at Sylhet borders amid Indian import ban

In the serene borderlands of Sylhet, where Tamabil and Sheola land ports once pulsed with the rhythm of vibrant trade, a tense stillness now prevails. These two vital gateways; lifelines of commerce between Bangladesh and India’s northeastern states have seen export activities grind to a halt following India’s abrupt imposition of import restrictions.

The heart of the disruption lies in New Delhi’s decision to ban the import of several goods now listed as restricted; goods which, ironically, form the backbone of exports from Tamabil and Sheola. These include ready-made garments, plastic products, fruit juices, household consumables, crockery and furniture, all previously in high demand across the border in Meghalaya and Assam.

Now, as trucks return to their depots loaded with unsold products, uncertainty hangs heavy over Sylhet’s trading future.

Business leaders and traders warn of far-reaching economic repercussions if the impasse continues, particularly for the industrial belts of Habiganj, where many factories were strategically established to serve the Indian northeast’s growing consumer market.

“The ban has effectively crippled port activities,” said Shah Alam, a Clearing and Forwarding (C&F) agent at Sheola Land Port. “While not all products are restricted, the high-volume items that drove trade are now blocked. Industrial units depending on this trade may soon be forced to cut back production.”

The impact is being felt on both sides of the border. For years, India’s remote ‘Seven Sister’ states depended on the Sylhet corridors for essential goods. The ports had facilitated a smooth two-way flow of commerce, fostering competitive pricing and deepening cross-border economic ties.

But with most exports now restricted, traders see little incentive in sending through the handful of items still allowed.

On May 19, only a single truck carrying melamine goods crossed into India through Sheola, while many others laden with plastic and consumer items were turned away.

“This is hurting businesses in both countries,” said Foyez Hasan Ferdous, President of Sylhet Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “A diplomatic resolution through bilateral dialogue is essential. We urge both governments to come together for the sake of economic stability and regional cooperation.”

For now, the once-bustling land ports of Tamabil and Sheola remain eerily quiet. And in Sylhet, the hope endures that renewed talks and mutual understanding will soon revive the trade routes that have long connected communities, commerce and shared futures across the border.