The Bangladesh Reconditioned Vehicles Importers and Dealers Association (BARVIDA) has announced a series of programmes, including the nationwide closure of showrooms, in protest against the ban on imports of used and reconditioned electric vehicles (EVs).

Under the programmes, all showrooms operated by BARVIDA members across the country will remain closed throughout September 17th, the association said in a press release issued on September 16th.

The association will also suspend the registration of all types of motor vehicles sold by its members at the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA).

In addition, BARVIDA members will suspend the payment of duties and e-payments, as well as vehicle clearance from ports for vehicles imported through customs houses, according to the release.

The association has also decided to display banners at prominent locations at its members' business establishments.

BARVIDA said imports of used EVs had previously been permitted under the import policy. However, the new import policy published on August 24th banned the import of used and reconditioned electric vehicles.

The association said the ban would affect consumers' access to newer vehicle technologies at comparatively lower prices.

It argued that new EVs are less accessible to middle- and lower-middle-income consumers because of their prices, while reconditioned EVs could be offered at comparatively lower prices to professionals and general buyers.

BARVIDA also claimed that increased adoption of EVs could contribute to the government's target of having electric vehicles account for 30% of the motor vehicle sector by 2030, while also increasing government revenue.

The association urged the government to withdraw the ban, citing the public interest. It warned that if the ban was not withdrawn, businesses in the reconditioned vehicle sector would undertake further programmes concerning their businesses and investments, as well as the interests of consumers.