Effective from today, 28th January 2025, until 31st March 2025, the special commodity tax on dates has been drastically reduced from Rs. 200 per kilogram to just Rs. 1. This concession applies to dates imported under the HS Codes 0804.10.10 and 0804.10.20.
In a bid to support the distribution of dates free of charge during the upcoming Ramadan festival, the Ministry of Finance has issued a Gazette notification announcing significant tax concessions on the importation of dates.
The Gazette also stipulates that the balance amount of the Rs. 200 special commodity tax, after collecting Rs. 1 per kilogram, will be waived. This move is expected to facilitate the smooth distribution of dates to those in need during the fasting period of Ramadan.
The government’s initiative comes as part of broader efforts to ease the financial burden on communities during the sacred month of Ramadan and ensure the availability of essential items to the public.
The new tax relief is expected to support charitable organizations and other groups distributing dates free of charge, ensuring that the tradition of sharing dates during Ramadan remains accessible to all.
