The Government has reduced the Special Commodity Levy on imported big onions from Rs. 30 to Rs. 10 per kilogram for the period of December 1 to December 31, 2024. The decision, which represents a Rs. 20 reduction, aims to curb rising onion prices amid concerns of further increases due to adverse weather and festive season demand.
The levy on imported potatoes, however, will remain unchanged. According to the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, the revisions were made following recommendations from the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Lands, and Irrigation and the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security, and Cooperative Development to balance consumer needs and farmer interests
The Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development stated that the revised tax regulations have been formally issued through a gazette notification dated November 30, 2024. These regulations will remain in effect from December 1 to December 31, 2024, as the validity of the previous gazette notification related to the matter concluded on November 30, 2024.
The Finance Ministry highlighted that the measure is part of efforts to address escalating vegetable prices and ensure affordability during the festive season.
