Bangladesh imports, foreign brands hurting local traders in Arunachal: ACCI

Guwahati: The Arunachal Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ACCI) on Thursday flagged concerns over the rising inflow of goods from Bangladesh and the unchecked presence of foreign brands in local markets, warning that the trend is adversely affecting traders, MSMEs and indigenous entrepreneurs in Arunachal Pradesh.

While reaffirming its support for lawful cross-border trade and regional cooperation, the chamber said excessive and unregulated market access for imported products was creating an uneven playing field for local businesses.

ACCI president Tarh Nachung said local traders incur far higher transportation and operating costs due to the state’s terrain, making it difficult for them to compete with low-priced imported goods. He cautioned that the situation threatens livelihoods, weakens traditional trades and undermines the national objectives of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” and “Vocal for Local”.

The chamber said the widening footprint of such brands has begun to disrupt local commerce and announced that ACCI teams would carry out surprise inspections across markets in the state to identify violations. It said action could include recommending the cancellation of licences of erring traders and distributors.

Highlighting 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.

The ACCI also directed distributors of identified foreign brands operating in the state to surrender their licences immediately and asked retailers to sell or dispose of existing stocks within a week.

Among its demands, the chamber called for regulation of foreign brand access across 12 Himalayan states and regions, strict monitoring of quality, pricing and statutory compliance of imported goods, policy safeguards and incentives for local traders and MSMEs, stronger promotion of Indian and local brands, and mandatory consultation with ACCI before any relaxation of trade norms.

Terming its stand constructive and non-confrontational, the chamber said it does not oppose international trade but seeks fair practices that ensure sustainable growth of the local economy.