Imports face obstacles in Kolkata

Importers have complained that at least four containers have been stranded for the last four days at Kolkata port due to obstruction by the port officials.
The containers were ferrying fish, chocolates and other perishable food items from a third country, according to a clearing agent in Kolkata.
"The port officials have been asking for sales tax payable to the West Bengal state government for ferrying the goods through the state," he added.
However, importers need not pay any tax on those goods, according to the entrepreneurs, who cited the commerce department's circular of West Bengal.
Entrepreneurs have already approached the Consulate General of Nepal Chandra Ghimire in Kolkata to resolve the issue, the clearing agent from Kolkata said, adding that the Consulate General has promised to look into the issue immediately.