Importers have stopped exports of fruits through Bangladesh’s Benapole landport indefinitely as a result of the decision of the government to raise import taxes. There have been no fruit-carrying vehicles in the port this morning on Tuesday following the decision of importers.

The move follows the escalating of the the supplementary duty for imported fresh fruit, from 20 10% to 30% from the 9th of January. Importers contend that the increase in tax makes fruit imports economically infeasible. This led to the decision to stop imports.

Abdul Mannan, a fruit importer, claimed that Bangladesh Fresh Food Association had before appealed to government for a retraction of the extra tax. The request was not met so traders decided to stop imports of fruit permanently. Mannan cautioned, “If the duty is not lifted prior to Ramadan is over, it could significantly influence the price of fruit. Prices for fruit will explode beyond the buying power of normal individuals.”

The suspension could impact government revenues significantly. Mohsin Milon, the President of the Benapole Import-Export Association, noted that the Benapole government makes around $23.5 million in revenue per day via fruit imports from Benapole. This increased duty has led to a decrease in the imports of fruit across the country which has led to shortages of supply as well as rising prices on the market as well, said Milon.

Benapole Customs House Joint Commissioner Sushanta Pal said there were that no trucks loaded with fruits have entered the port as of Tuesday’s morning. Daily entry levels halving before suspension. Pal said that “If the situation persists and the price of fruits increases throughout Ramadan could be too expensive to the average consumer.”

Source: Daily Sun