Itanagar: The Arunachal Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ACCI) on Thursday flagged what it described as a growing influx of Bangladeshi products into Indian markets, warning that the unchecked entry of foreign brands is adversely affecting local traders, MSMEs and indigenous entrepreneurs, particularly in the sensitive border state of Arunachal Pradesh.
In a statement, ACCI president Tarh Nachung said local businesses are struggling to compete with low-priced imported goods due to significantly higher transportation and operational costs.
He cautioned that the trend threatens local employment and traditional trades and runs counter to the national objectives of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Vocal for Local.
The chamber also expressed serious concern over reported incidents of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh.
Citing media reports, ACCI said at least six members of the Hindu community have been killed in the last 18 days, including Rana Pratap Bairagi and Sarat Mani Chakraborty on January 5.
Describing the incidents as inhuman and deeply disturbing, the chamber said it was shocked to witness the expanding presence of Bangladeshi brands in Indian markets even as members of the minority community continue to face violence across the border.
According to ACCI, products of Bangladeshi companies have gained market access across the country, including the Northeast, and their growing footprint is impacting local trade and small businesses.
While reiterating its respect for lawful international trade and regional cooperation, the chamber warned that unregulated or excessive market penetration is creating unfair competition for local traders, MSMEs and indigenous enterprises.
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.
He cautioned that an unchecked inflow of foreign-branded products could weaken the already fragile economic ecosystem of the Northeast.
The chamber asked distributors of the identified foreign brands operating in the state to surrender their licences immediately, and directed retailers to sell or dispose of existing stocks within a week.
It said ACCI teams would carry out surprise inspections across markets in the state and that violators could face action, including recommendations for cancellation of licences.
ACCI also placed a series of 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 the chamber before granting any trade relaxations.
Stating that its protest is constructive and non-confrontational, the chamber said it does not oppose international trade but is seeking fair trade practices and sustainable growth for the local economy.
