Dhaka, Nov 18 (Reporter) After a two-year hiatus, India has once again begun exporting rice to Bangladesh via the Benapole-Petrapole Land Port. Over three trucks loaded with 105 tons of non-basmati rice, imported by Mahabubul Alam Food Products from Jessore, entered the transhipment yard at the Benapole port on Sunday night, the Dhaka Tribune reported. Customs officials have been instructed to expedite clearance after verifying all necessary documentation. Another 100 tons of rice is expected to arrive by the same importer soon, Dhaka Tribune said quoting official sources. Ziaur Rahman, an official, said the total import cost of the shipment is $45,150, equivalent to Bangladesh Taka 54.18 lakh. The importers are required to distribute the rice in local markets by December 10 and must also report the quantity, warehousing, and marketing of the imported goods to the district food controller. The Bangladesh government has authorised 24 importers, including 12 from Jessore to bring in 73,000 tons of parboiled rice and 19,000 tons of Atap rice. However, traders are sceptical about whether all authorised imports can be completed before the December 10 deadline, the daily said. The Indian Government had earlier levied significant duty charges on export of rice in 2023 due to a domestic shortage, causing rice trade with Bangladesh to stop. The Bangladesh government had likewise put significant import charges due to its economic problems. The removal of import duties is part of an effort to control rising rice prices in Bangladesh’s local market, the reports said...////...