Moin Mahmud: The Bangladesh Reconditioned Vehicles Importers and Dealers Association (BARVIDA) has demanded the reinstatement of the opportunity to import used electric vehicles (EVs), subject to specific conditions and oversight mechanisms.

BARVIDA presented these demands and other proposals at a press conference held on Wednesday (September 9) at the Dhaka Club in the capital.

BARVIDA leaders argue that the decision to ban the import of used or reconditioned electric vehicles is discriminatory. Used electric vehicles are being imported in various countries around the world. Initially, they are seeking permission to import used electric vehicles that are up to five years old.

At the press conference, BARVIDA President Abdul Haque stated that although the import of used EVs had commenced under the previous import policy, the new import policy published on August 24 completely banned the import of used and reconditioned electric vehicles. This move limits the opportunity for ordinary and middle-class people to use vehicles featuring new technology at relatively lower prices. It will also reduce the government`s revenue earnings.
The organization claims that approximately 71 countries worldwide allow the import of used and reconditioned EVs subject to conditions. Opportunities exist to import EVs up to 10 years old in the UK, six years in Georgia, eight years in Kenya, and five years in Saudi Arabia. BARVIDA noted that New Zealand and Ireland also permit the import of EVs subject to conditions, without a specific age limit.

BARVIDA’s 8 Proposals
Initially, grant permission to import used or reconditioned electric vehicles that are up to 5 years old.
Consider setting a minimum `State of Health` (SOH) percentage for batteries. To protect consumer interests, make it mandatory for relevant authorities to certify the battery lifespan of locally assembled, manufactured, and imported new EVs. Mandate effective inspection and certification by authorized agencies prior to importation to ensure there are no defects in the vehicles.

Completely ban the import of EVs that have sustained severe damage—whether due to floods, fires, major accidents, or structural issues.
Formulate a specific framework for the environmentally friendly recycling or safe disposal of EV batteries after use.
Maintain existing tariff and tax incentives to encourage genuine investment in sectors such as charging stations, servicing, battery diagnostics, and recycling.

Rationalize and re-evaluate the price-tier-based tariff and tax structure for EVs—introduced in the current budget—in consultation with business stakeholders in the sector.
Review vehicle age limits and other conditions after a specified period by assessing the outcomes and impact of the formulated policies.

Responding to questions from journalists, BARVIDA President Abdul Haque said, "We have submitted our appeals to the relevant ministries and the highest levels of government. We hope the democratic government will withdraw this ban in the public interest. Otherwise, to protect the investments of traders and the interests of consumers, we will be compelled to launch programs such as street demonstrations and the closure of showrooms."

Central leaders and top business figures of the organization attended the press conference, including former BARVIDA Presidents Abdul Mannan Chowdhury and Habibullah Don; former General Secretaries Mahabubul Haque Chowdhury, Habibur Rahman, and Shahidul Islam; as well as current committee members Senior Vice-President Mohibul Islam and Vice-Presidents Habibur and Farid.