Importers suspend fruit clearance at all ports for two days

Importers have announced a two-day suspension of fruit clearance from all ports, including Chattogram port, until Wednesday, demanding the withdrawal of increased value-added tax (VAT) and duties on fruit imports.

Junaidul Haque, publicity secretary of Chattogram Fruit Traders Association, said that the decision was made today following a protest of human chain at the National Board of Revenue (NBR).

They claim that the decision has led to a rise in fruit prices and a decline in sales.

He confirmed that fruit clearance will remain suspended at all land ports across the country on February 4-5.

The importers have warned that if their demands are not met by February 13, they will enforce an indefinite suspension of fruit clearance starting February 14.