BARVIDA to hold nationwide showrooms shutdown protesting ban

The Bangladesh Reconditioned Vehicles Importers and Dealers Association (BARVIDA) members across country is set to shutdown their showrooms on Thursday (September 17), in protest against the government’s decision to completely ban the import of used and reconditioned electric vehicles (EVs).

In a press release issued on Wednesday (September 16), signed by BARVIDA Secretary General Riaz Rahman, the association also warned that if the ban is not withdrawn, it may announce tougher programmes to protect the businesses and investments of traders in the reconditioned motor vehicle sector and safeguard the interests of a broader group of consumers.

The press release stated that the association is demanding the reinstatement of the facility to import used or reconditioned EVs under a regulated and conditional framework, considering vehicle age, technical standards, safety and environmental requirements in line with international standards. 

According to BARVIDA, although the previous import policy allowed the import of used EVs, the new import policy published on August 24, 2026, completely prohibited the import of used and reconditioned electric vehicles.

The association said the decision would deprive consumers of access to newer vehicle technologies at relatively affordable prices. 

“New EVs are beyond the purchasing capacity of many middle- and lower-middle-income people,” BARVIDA said, arguing that reconditioned EVs could make electric mobility more accessible to ordinary consumers and professionals while also contributing to economic activity.

The association also claimed that expanding the EV market through the regulated import of reconditioned vehicles could help the government achieve its target of increasing the share of electric vehicles in the motor vehicle sector to 30 percent by 2030, while generating additional revenue.
As part of its protest programme, BARVIDA members across the country kept their showrooms closed throughout Wednesday.

The association has also announced further programmes for Thursday, September 17, including suspension of registration activities at the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) for all types of motor vehicles sold by its members.

BARVIDA members will also suspend the payment of duties and taxes, e-payment and port clearance of imported vehicles through all customs houses as part of the protest.

The association has instructed its member businesses to display banners at prominent locations at their respective showrooms highlighting their demands.

BARVIDA urged the government to withdraw the ban, saying the decision should be reconsidered in the public interest.

-MaT/AAH