ISLAMABAD, May 8: The National Tariff Commission (NTC) is considering tariff protection to the indigenous industry manufacturing jute yarn and twine.

Pakistan Jute Manufacturing Association has sought enhancement in customs duty to 25 per cent from the current 10 per cent on import of jute yarn and twine to protect the local industry.

The National Tariff Commission has sought feedback from all parties having interest in the business or associated with imports, manufacturing and marketing of jute yarn and twine.

Yarn and twine are made both from jute and sisal plants and are of same nature and are used for similar purposes.

Yarn and twines of jute are imported at 10 per cent customs duty, while yarn and twines of sisal are imported at 25 per cent customs duty.

The manufacturer argues that the product, yarn and twines of jute, may be imposed 25 per cent customs duty instead of present 10 per cent to bring uniformity in both the products and protect the domestic jute industry against cheaper imports of yarn and twines.

The National Tariff Commission has initiated an inquiry and has invited comments within 15 days. The National Tariff Commission will organise a public hearing on May 28 to get feedback of stake-holders.