Play store
The Bangladesh Reconditioned Vehicles Importers and Dealers Association (BARVIDA) has announced a series of programmes in protest against the government’s decision to ban the import of used and reconditioned electric vehicles (EVs).
The association has demanded that the ban be withdrawn and that the government restore the facility to import used or reconditioned EVs under controlled and conditional arrangements, considering vehicle age, safety, environmental standards and technical capacity in line with international standards.
According to BARVIDA, used EVs could previously be imported under the existing import policy. However, the new import policy published on August 24, 2026, completely prohibits the import of used and reconditioned electric cars.
The association said the decision would deprive consumers of access to relatively affordable vehicles equipped with newer technologies.
It argued that brand-new EVs remain beyond the reach of many middle- and lower-middle-income consumers, while reconditioned EVs could make electric mobility more accessible to ordinary buyers and professionals.
BARVIDA also said expanding the EV market could help Bangladesh achieve its target of having electric vehicles account for 30 percent of the motor vehicle sector by 2030 while increasing government revenue.
As part of its protest, BARVIDA has announced the following programmes for Thursday, September 17:
All showrooms across the country will remain closed for the day. BARVIDA members will suspend registration of all types of motor vehicles sold by them at the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA). Members will suspend payment of import duties and taxes, e-payment and port clearance of imported vehicles through all customs houses. And members will display protest banners at prominent locations at their respective business establishments and showrooms.
BARVIDA expressed hope that the government would withdraw the ban in the public interest.
The association warned that if the restriction is not withdrawn, reconditioned vehicle traders would be compelled to announce tougher programmes to protect their businesses and investments and safeguard the interests of a wider group of consumers.