The ceramic industry urged the government to impose additional duty on ceramic imports to discourage bringing in such costly items from abroad.
The Bangladesh Ceramic Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BCMEA) sought quick steps to help protect the local industry.
Last month, the association placed the demand to the National Board of Revenue (NBR) in this regard.
BCMEA data shows 70 ceramic tableware, tiles and sanitaryware industrial units have been established across the country with domestic and foreign investment involving over Tk14,000 crore.
The industry is meeting 85% domestic demand for such household goods, according to the association.
According to a BCMEA source, finished ceramic tiles, tableware and sanitaryware are being imported at an annual value of more than Tk1,346 crore, simply cornering local producers.
To discourage ths, the BCMEA has proposed to increase minimum tariff value, including additional tax which will also lower the pressure on foreign exchange.
If the proposal is accepted, it adds, the hard-earned foreign exchange will be saved and additional revenue from the unnecessary sector be created.
The domestic market size of ceramic products was an estimated Tk35,000 crore in 2019, according to the association.
The sector earned $68.97 million by exporting such products in FY19, according to the Export Promotion Bureau.
Manufacturers ship products to different countries, including the UK, the US and Canada as well as other European and Latin American countries.
