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Bangladesh fruit importers halt shipments over higher duties, warn of Ramadan price surge

Importers have halted fruit imports through Bangladesh's Benapole land port indefinitely, in response to the government's decision to increase import duties. No fruit-carrying trucks have entered since Tuesday morning, following the importers' decision.

This action follows the government's hike in supplementary duty on imported fresh fruit from 20% to 30% on January 9. Importers argue that the additional duty renders fruit imports economically unfeasible, prompting the decision to cease imports.

Abdul Mannan, a fruit importer, stated that the Bangladesh Fresh Food Association had previously appealed to the government to retract the additional duty. Their request was unmet, and traders opted to halt fruit imports indefinitely. Mannan warned, "If the duty is not withdrawn before Ramadan, it will significantly impact the market. Fruit prices will skyrocket beyond the purchasing power of ordinary people."

The suspension is expected to affect government revenue significantly. Mohsin Milon, President of the Benapole Import-Export Association, noted that the government earns approximately $23.5 million in daily revenue from fruit imports through Benapole. The increased duty has already caused a noticeable decline in fruit imports nationwide, leading to supply shortages and rising market prices, he added.

Benapole Customs House Joint Commissioner Sushanta Pal reported no fruit-laden trucks entering the port since Tuesday morning, with daily entries halving even before the suspension. He emphasized, "If this situation continues, fruit prices during Ramadan will go beyond reach for the general public."

Source: Daily Sun