Massive Fire at Dhaka Airport Cargo Terminal Devastates Garment Exports During Peak Season

Fire Wipes Out Cargo Complex in Dhaka

A massive blaze engulfed the cargo import section of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on Saturday afternoon, October 18, 2025, causing extensive damage to Bangladesh’s garment export industry during its peak season. The fire gutted storage areas containing raw materials, apparel, and product samples, critical for both ongoing shipments and future business deals.

“The entire import section has been reduced to ashes,” said Faisal Samad, director of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA). He estimated the financial losses could reach $1 billion.

Smoke continued to billow from the terminal into Sunday, as authorities assessed the damage. Inamul Haq Khan, BGMEA senior vice-president, emphasized the loss of samples could affect future contracts with international buyers, including major retailers such as Walmart, H&M, and Gap.

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Bangladesh’s Garment Industry at Risk

The airport’s cargo village is among the country’s busiest logistics hubs, handling over 600 metric tons of dry cargo daily, with traffic doubling during October to December, the sector’s peak export period. Every day, 200 to 250 factories ship goods via air, according to BGMEA officials.

Bangladesh’s garment industry generates $47 billion annually, employs roughly four million workers, and contributes more than 10% of the country’s GDP. Analysts warn that delayed shipments and destroyed samples could disrupt the country’s position as the world’s second-largest apparel exporter.

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Investigation and Safety Concerns

The cause of the fire remains unknown, and a government-led investigation is underway. This incident follows two other major fires this week:

• Tuesday, October 14: A fire at a Dhaka garment factory and nearby chemical warehouse killed 16 people.

• Thursday, October 16: A seven-story garment factory in Chittagong’s export processing zone was destroyed.

Authorities have pledged a thorough probe, warning that any evidence of sabotage or arson will be met with “swift and resolute” action. Officials emphasized that public safety and economic activity would not be disrupted.

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International Impact

The fire threatens to delay shipments and complicate Bangladesh’s ability to meet international delivery deadlines, a major concern for retailers relying on timely supply during the global holiday season. Exporters warn that lost product samples could undermine efforts to secure future contracts and maintain relationships with buyers.

“These samples are essential for securing new buyers and expanding orders. Losing them means our members may miss out on future opportunities,” said Inamul Haq Khan, highlighting the long-term implications for the sector.