Policymakers and stakeholders should prioritise combating corruption and fostering transparency within the country’s shipping industry, said speakers at a roundtable in Dhaka today (10 October).
YoungShip Bangladesh in collaboration with the Maritime Anti-Corruption Network organised the roundtable on “Future-proofing ethical shipping in Bangladesh: Safeguarding maritime integrity.”
Participants at the roundtable, including industry leaders and government officials, acknowledged the prevalence of corruption in various sectors of the maritime industry, including customs clearance, pilotage, and port state control.
Saif Rahman, director of Shun Shing Group Bangladesh, highlighted delays, bribery, and unnecessary expenses associated with government permits and document processing as common issues.
He further emphasised the vulnerability of the sector to manipulation due to a lack of transparency, particularly concerning invoice manipulation and under-invoicing by importers.
Saif, along with other speakers, stressed the importance of robust anti-corruption policies and training programmes to cultivate ethical practices within the industry.
Commodore (Retd) Syed Ariful Islam, project head of Maritime Anti-Corruption Network Bangladesh, pointed out the lack of specific regulations against corruption in the current legal framework.
He emphasised the need for a comprehensive policy and training programmes to empower individuals to report unethical behaviour without fear of retaliation.
Farida Yesmin, country head of APL Logistics, underscored the significance of a strict code of conduct alongside established policies to ensure ethical operations.
Obaidul Bashir, chief engineer and ship surveyor with the Department of Shipping, highlighted ongoing efforts to digitalise the maritime sector by 2025.
According to him, this initiative aims to streamline processes and enhance efficiency, potentially reducing opportunities for corruption.
Tanjil Ahmed Ruhullah, president of YoungShip Bangladesh, emphasised the critical role of ethical shipping in ensuring Bangladesh’s competitiveness in global trade.
He highlighted the potential of improved maritime integrity to elevate the country’s “Ease of Doing Business” ranking.
Yusuf Mahbubul Islam, vice-chancellor of Southeast University, underscored the importance of education and strong leadership in fostering a culture of responsibility and transparency within the industry.
