Millat seeks UK support to remove EU air cargo restriction
Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat has sought British support for removing the European Union's high-risk designation on Bangladeshi air cargo, citing significant improvements in the country's aviation security standards.
"I seek the British High Commission's support on an important issue affecting our air cargo sector," the minister said at a reception hosted by the British High Commission in Dhaka on Tuesday evening.
British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke, representatives of government, aviation, tourism and hospitality sectors and business leaders attended the event.
Millat said cargo originating from Bangladesh has been designated by the EU as High Risk Cargo and Mail since June 2017, requiring additional security measures for shipments destined for the European market.
"We have been addressing the EU's concerns," he said.
Highlighting Bangladesh's recent progress in aviation security, the minister cited the latest assessment conducted by the UK Department for Transport (DfT).
"The UK Department for Transport's assessment on 17 July 2026 rated Osmani International Airport at 98 percent and Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 94 percent," he said.
"We therefore request the British High Commission's support in facilitating the removal of this restriction at the earliest opportunity," Millat added.
The minister's appeal comes as Bangladesh seeks to strengthen its air-cargo competitiveness and improve aviation connectivity with major international markets.
The high-risk designation requires Bangladesh-origin cargo bound for the European Union to undergo enhanced security procedures, adding another layer of screening and compliance to the air-cargo supply chain.
Millat's remarks placed particular emphasis on the improved security performance at the country's two major international airports and Bangladesh's efforts to address international aviation-security requirements.
The minister also highlighted the broader importance of Bangladesh-UK aviation cooperation.
He said the aviation sector is closely connected with the country's wider economic and tourism development, requiring international cooperation, investment and improved connectivity.
Millat said the government is currently working to develop a sustainable mixed fleet for Biman Bangladesh Airlines through a combination of Boeing and Airbus aircraft.
He also said Cox's Bazar International Airport is expected to open within the next month, with the airport intended to support the development of international tourism and improve access to the country's premier beach destination.
The minister called upon British investors to explore opportunities in Bangladesh, saying the government is seeking greater foreign direct investment as part of its economic diversification and employment-generation strategy.
He said Bangladesh wants to transform its aviation and tourism infrastructure into internationally competitive sectors with greater private-sector participation.
Referring to longstanding relations between Dhaka and London, Millat expressed confidence that Bangladesh-UK cooperation would deepen further under the present government.
He hoped Britain would continue supporting Bangladesh in developing its aviation sector and resolving the remaining barriers affecting international air connectivity and cargo movement.
