Dhaka, April 25 -- The Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) will continue its services even on weekends to help protect importers from losses at ports from now on, says the industries secretary.

Announcing the decision on Saturday, Md Obaidur Rahman ordered the quick release of imported goods for the convenience of importers.

He was addressing a public hearing of stakeholders at the BSTI head office in the capital's Tejgaon, says a media statement.

"The decision, taken in the wake of the long-standing demands of importers, will ensure quick clearance of goods from ports. At the same time, importers will be protected from unnecessary demurrage (compensation) costs," it reads.

The secretary also directed BSTI officials to...