DHAKA: The cabinet on Monday (Jan 28) gave approval in principle to the draft of the Bangladesh Flag Vessel (protection) Bill 2019 with provision for the vessels to carry 50 percent overseas cargo from the existing 40 percent.

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. 

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

The Cabinet also gave the final nod to the draft of Bangladesh EPZ Labour Bill 2019.

Besides, a triennial report on the cabinet’s decisions in 2018 was placed at the meeting. 

BDST: 1645 HRS, JAN 28, 2019
RS/SMS