The National Revenue Authority (NRA) has responded to public pressure by reducing the import duty on 40-foot containers from Le210 million (NLe210,000) to Le160 million (NLe160,000). The move comes after a significant backlash from local importers, particularly female traders, who had been struggling with the steep increase in costs.

Last week, the NRA raised the import duty from Le135 million (NLe135,000) to Le210 million (NLe210,000), prompting immediate protests from importers concerned about the potential impact on consumer prices. Although the reduction to Le160 million has been welcomed by traders, many still believe it falls short of what is needed.

A female importer voiced the concerns of many, stating, "We appreciate the government's quick response, but even Le135 million was too high for us. The real burden falls on the poor consumers who will struggle with the rising costs." The importers are now calling for further reductions, urging the government to drop the duty below Le135 million to ease the financial strain on businesses and consumers alike.

Opposition politicians have also weighed in, commending the NRA for its responsiveness but joining the call for deeper cuts. An opposition representative remarked, "Lowering the duty from Le210 million to Le160 million is a positive step, but even the original Le135 million was unaffordable for many importers. The government needs to consider the economic hardships people are facing and further reduce the charges to help lower the cost of goods and services."

Importers are also calling for waivers, stressing that they should not be limited to foreign businesspeople. "Waivers should be extended to local traders, not just to Indians, Lebanese, Chinese, and whites," said one female importer. "People are going hungry. Prices need to come down, or we won't be able to survive."

Both importers and opposition leaders are urging the government to take swift action to address the economic challenges facing the country, warning that failure to do so could worsen an already difficult situation.