Chattogram Customs House has announced plans to auction over 100 vehicles, including 31 luxury cars originally imported under duty-free privileges granted to former members of parliament (MPs).
The auction is scheduled for January 21 and aims to address prolonged delays in the clearance of these vehicles.
Md Sakib Hossain, assistant commissioner at Chattogram Customs House, confirmed that the vehicles have been stored at various locations, including the Chattogram Port car shed, due to legal complications and lack of owner responses to settle dues. Notices were previously issued, but former MPs whose vehicles benefited from the privileged scheme have yet to take action.
Among the vehicles to be auctioned are 31 Land Cruisers imported under the MP quota. These vehicles have a reserve price of Tk 9.5 crore each, representing 60% of their estimated value. Officials estimate the total revenue from these cars could reach Tk 221 crore, including VAT and taxes.
Other vehicles up for sale include Toyota Harriers, Havals, Toyota Premio, Noah, and Rav-4 models. The auction inventory also includes 30 cement mixer machines and 10 dump trucks, with the total revenue target set at Tk 400 crore.
Md Saidul Islam, deputy commissioner at Chattogram Customs House, highlighted the deteriorating condition of approximately 300 cars left in open sheds due to prolonged storage. Meanwhile, Yakub Chowdhury of the Chattogram Customs Bidders Association noted that these items have been occupying space at the port for years.
Authorities hope the auction will help alleviate congestion and generate significant revenue for the government.
