The National Revenue Authority (NRA) has reduced the import duty on 40-foot containers from Le210 million (NLe210, 000) to Le160 million (NLe160, 000) in response to widespread public outcry.

The decision follows a significant backlash from local importers, particularly female traders, who have struggled with the increased costs.

Last week, the NRA raised the import duty on 40-foot containers from Le135 million (NLe135, 000) to Le210 million (NLe210, 000), sparking immediate protests from importers who warned of the impact on consumer prices. The reduction to Le160 million has been welcomed by traders but is still seen as insufficient.

“While we appreciate the quick response from the government, even Le135 million was too high for us. The people who really suffer from the rise in costs are the poor consumers,” said one female importer. The importers have called for further reductions, urging the government to drop the duty below Le135 million to alleviate the financial burden on businesses and consumers alike.

Opposition politicians have also weighed in, praising the NRA for responding to public concerns but echoing calls for further cuts. “Dropping the price from Le210 million to Le160 million is commendable, but the original Le135 million was already too much for importers to afford,” said an opposition representative. “The government must consider the widespread economic hardship and reduce the charge further to help lower the prices of goods and services.”

The importers also called for waivers, not just for foreign businesspeople but for local traders as well. “The waiver should not only be for the Indians, Lebanese, Chinese, and whites,” said a female importer. “People are going to bed hungry every night. Prices and costs have to come down, or people will not be able to cope, even us.”

The importers and opposition leaders have urged the government to take swift action to address the economic challenges facing the country, warning that failure to do so could exacerbate the already dire situation.