Onion and potato imports from India through Hili land port have been suspended due to slot booking complications.

Without prior notice, West Bengal government abruptly halted the slot booking process for exporting these goods last Sunday afternoon.

The sudden disruption has left traders from both India and Bangladesh in a difficult situation.

Despite two days passing, the issue remains unresolved, prompting frustration among importers. Many traders who opened Letters of Credit (LC) for importing onions and potatoes are now facing significant losses due to the unexpected halt in trade.

Hili-based importer SM Reza Bipul said, "The sudden suspention has put us in trouble. We urge the West Bengal government to allow the export of goods under previously issued LCs."

Indian exporters have informed Bangladeshi traders that a meeting is scheduled for Tuesday in Kolkata between exporters and relevant government officials to resolve the issue. Traders are hopeful for a positive outcome.

Meanwhile, a single truck carrying potatoes, booked under a previous slot, managed to enter the Hili port Monday. However, no trucks carrying onions have arrived at the port during this period.

The traders are calling for swift intervention to restore normal trade operations and minimize further losses.