Import of daily essentials through Biratnagar border point to face stricter regulations

BIRATNAGAR, July 12: In a concerted effort to boost business activities in Biratnagar, authorities led by the Biratnagar Metropolitan City have taken measures to curb imports through the border without paying the customs duty. A discussion held on Tuesday highlighted the need to tighten customs regulations and halt the import of various goods, including food grains, without proper duty payment.

Currently, imports up to Rs 100 from the Biratnagar border enjoy a customs discount. However, the metropolis has announced that this exemption will be removed starting from July 17. Representatives from concerned agencies expressed concerns during the discussion, emphasizing the importance of stricter customs enforcement to facilitate the growth of local businesses.

Under the leadership of Mayor Nagesh Koirala, the discussion aimed to discourage the import of essential commodities, such as food grains and clothing, without proper customs duty payment. Effective immediately, all goods imported from the Jogbani border and nearby borders will be subject to customs duties.

Mayor Koirala emphasized the decision to implement strict market monitoring to prevent local traders from engaging in the illegal trade of imported goods. The ban extends not only to consumers but also to local traders involved in the sale and distribution of illegally imported goods.

Rajendra Parajuli, the chief administrative officer of the metropolis, stated that joint appeals were made to the Biratnagar-based Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Confederation of Nepalese Industries, Morang Trade Association, and Birat Trade Association, urging their members to refrain from trading illegal goods.

In response to the traders’ complaints, the metropolis conducted a stakeholder meeting and made significant decisions to promote the local market. Birendra Kumar Yadav, Chief District Officer of Morang, assured support from the administration to enforce the local government's decisions. Morang Police Chief SP Deepak Pokharel emphasized the need for a change in the mindset of Nepali consumers to prioritize domestic market purchases.

Additionally, Armed Police Force SP Tirtha Bahadur Thapa expressed the view that there should not be a significant price difference between goods from Jogbani and Biratnagar. The discussion witnessed participation from representatives of Morang's industrialists' association and various state agencies, further enhancing the dialogue surrounding effective customs enforcement