The move comes amidst rising prices for onions and growing concern about potential price hikes for potatoes and other vegetables, driven by adverse weather and season demand during the festive period. However, the SCL of Rs. 60 per kilo on imported potatoes will remain unchanged.

In a statement, the Finance, Planning and Economic Development noted that the tax adjustment was implemented following recommendations from the Agriculture, Livestock, Lands and Irrigation Ministry as well as Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development Ministry.

It added that the revision aims to strike a balance between supporting local farmers and ensuring affordable prices for consumers.

The adjustment follows the expiration of the previous gazette notification No. 2404/19, necessitating new measures to regulate prices during the festive season.