The Bangladesh Footwear Manufacturers’ Association has called for reinstating the 15-per cent value-added tax (VAT) exemption on low-cost rubber and plastic footwear priced at or below taka 150.
VAT exemption on this category of footwear had been in place since 2016, but was withdrawn.
The decision has led to a rise in production costs, reduced demand, factory closures and significant job losses.
