The North Assam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NACCI) Tezpur successfully intervened yesterday after local businesses faced an unexpected steep increase in trade license renewal fees imposed by the Tezpur Municipal Board (TMB).
On May 7th, several NACCI members reported receiving notices of dramatically increased trade license renewal fees. Responding quickly, NACCI mobilized its membership, with regular and associate members assembling at the TMB office to question the sudden increase.
A letter to review was given by NACCI and its associate members to the TMB Chairman, highlighting concerns about the excessive and sudden nature of the hike. The letter emphasized that while businesses understand the need for occasional fee revisions, this particular increase would place “a significant financial burden, especially given current economic challenges.”
After discussions with TMB officials, the chamber received assurance that the fee structure would be reviewed. According to NACCI, the municipal board agreed to only accept renewal payments based on revised rates following this review, effectively putting the steep increase on hold.
In their official representation, NACCI proposed alternatives including a more moderate increase, a phased approach over several years, or establishing a consultative process involving stakeholders before implementing significant changes.
The NACCI leadership thanked all members who responded quickly to the situation, noting their united presence was instrumental in securing a review commitment from authorities.
Local businesses are advised to await further communication before proceeding with trade license renewals under the disputed fee structure.
