Bangladeshi imports and foreign brands are affecting local businesses, alleges ACCI

Guwahati: The Arunachal Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ACCI) on Thursday expressed concern over the increasing influx of goods from Bangladesh and the unrestricted presence of foreign brands in the local market. It warned that this trend was adversely affecting Arunachal Pradesh’s traders, MSMEs, and indigenous entrepreneurs.
Reiterating its support for legal cross-border trade and regional cooperation, the Chamber said that excessive and unregulated market access for imported products was creating a level playing field for local businesses.
ACCI President Tarah Nachung said that due to the state’s terrain, local traders face high transportation and operating costs, making it difficult for them to compete with low-priced imported goods. He warned that this situation threatens livelihoods, weakens traditional trade, and undermines the national goals of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” and “Vocal for Local.”
The chamber stated that the growing presence of such brands has begun to disrupt local commerce and announced that ACCI teams will conduct surprise inspections in the state’s markets to identify violations. It stated that action could include recommending the cancellation of licenses of erring traders and distributors.

Highlighting the strategic and economic sensitivity of the Himalayan region, Nachung urged policymakers to adopt a region-specific approach when formulating trade and market access policies.

ACCI also directed distributors of identified foreign brands operating in the state to immediately surrender their licenses and asked retailers to sell or dispose of existing stock within a week.
Among its demands, the Chamber sought regulation of foreign brand access in the 12 Himalayan states and regions, strict monitoring of quality, pricing, and legal compliance of imported goods, policy safeguards and incentives for local traders and MSMEs, greater promotion of Indian and local brands, and mandatory consultation with ACCI before any relaxation in trade norms.
Describing its stand as constructive and non-confrontational, the Chamber said it is not opposed to international trade, but wants fair practices that ensure sustainable growth of the local economy.