Arunachal trade body warns of influx of Bangladeshi goods in state, links business with violence

In what could trigger fresh row in an already tense India-Bangladesh relations, the Arunachal Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ACCI) on Thursday (January 8) expressed concern over the rising influx of products from the neighbouring country into Indian markets, warning that unchecked entry of the foreign goods is adversely impacting local traders, MSMEs, and indigenous entrepreneurs, especially in the strategically sensitive border state of Arunachal Pradesh.

ACCI chief says Bangladeshi goods hurting 'Atmanirbhar' Bharat

In a statement, ACCI president Tarh Nachung said domestic traders are facing disproportionately high transportation and operational costs, making it increasingly difficult to compete with cheaper Bangladeshi products.

He warned that the growing presence of low-cost foreign goods poses a serious threat to local employment, traditional businesses, and indigenous industries, and runs counter to the Centre’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Vocal for Local’ initiatives.

Links trade with violence

The chamber also expressed concern over reported incidents of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. It said, citing reports that six Hindus have been killed in the last 18 days, including Rana Pratap Bairagi and Sarat Mani Chakraborty on January 5.

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Describing these incidents as inhuman and deeply disturbing, the ACCI said it was shocked to see the rising presence of Bangladeshi brands in India even as members of the minority community continue to face violence in that country.

It pointed out that products of Bangladeshi companies have gained access across the country, including the Northeast.

Calls for regulatory action

Speaking in favour of lawful international trade and regional cooperation, the chamber cautioned that unregulated or excessive market penetration is creating unfair competition for local traders, MSMEs and indigenous businesses.

Underscoring the strategic and economic sensitivity of the Himalayan region, Nachung urged policymakers to adopt a region-specific approach while framing trade and market-access policies.

He also cautioned that the unchecked inflow of foreign products could weaken the fragile economic ecosystem of the Northeast.

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The chamber also asked distributors of the identified foreign brands operating in the state to surrender their licenses immediately, while retailers should sell or dispose of existing stocks within a week.

ACCI to conduct surprise checks

It said ACCI teams would conduct surprise checks in markets across the state and that violators could face action, including recommendations for cancellation of licenses.

The ACCI placed several demands before the authorities, including regulation of market access for foreign brands in 12 Himalayan states and regions, strict monitoring of quality, pricing and statutory compliance of imported products, policy protection and incentives for local traders and MSMEs, stronger promotion of Indian and local brands, and mandatory consultation with ACCI before granting any trade relaxation.

Stating that its protest is constructive and non-confrontational, the body said it does not oppose international trade but seeks fair trade practices and sustainable local economic growth.

(With agency inputs)