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Another pressing demand from the BCMEA was for the withdrawal of the supplementary duty (SD) on the sale of ceramic tiles and sanitary ware.

Currently, a 15 percent SD is imposed on the sale of ceramic tiles, while sanitary ware faces a 10 percent duty.

Mir Nasir Hossain, former president of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) and adviser to the BCMEA, emphasised the importance of uninterrupted gas supply for ceramic production.

“Gas is a crucial component in ceramic manufacturing, requiring a continuous 24-hour supply at a specific pressure level. Any drop in pressure can cause immediate damage to products, leading to substantial financial losses,” he said.

Hossain warned that ongoing production disruptions could push manufacturers into financial distress, making them prone to becoming bank defaulters due to high interest rates.

Some companies are already on the path of collapse due to the gas shortages, he claimed, adding that despite the inadequate gas supply, factories are still required to pay the same utility bills.

Md Mamunur Rashid, vice president of the BCMEA, criticised the proposed gas price increase for new factories, with the rates being increased from Tk 30 per unit to Tk 75 per unit.

“This decision is completely illogical and would act as a major barrier to the industry’s development,” he said.

Regarding the SD, Rashid pointed out that the effective corporate tax rate on ceramic manufacturers reaches around 32.5 percent.

“We strongly urge the government to withdraw the proposal for imposing a 20 percent SD on the ceramic sector to ensure its sustainability and growth,” he concluded.