The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) yesterday expressed deep concern about the strike called by Bangladesh Shipping Labour Federation from July 24.

“The strike may disrupt passengers' movement. The transport and the supply system will also be affected,” said the apex trade body in a statement.

The FBCCI said the recent congestion at the Chittagong Port has already made the unloading of goods very difficult. It has also caused an increase in container charge, making products costlier.

“In this situation, the strike called by the shipping workers will put a negative impact on the economy.”

The FBCCI has requested Bangladesh Shipping Labour Federation to withdraw the strike and address the issue through talks.

The apex trade body urged the shipping ministry and all other concerned parties to come forward to solve the crisis immediately.

Meanwhile, Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry also expressed worries over the strike.

The work abstention programme will cause the prices of basic commodities to spiral and aggravate the sufferings of the flood-affected people, CCCI President Mahbubul Alam said in a statement.