The government has slashed reduced import duties on dates, oranges and apples ahead of the upcoming holy month of Ramadan in an effort to facilitate imports of the fruits during the period of increased demand.

The decision was taken at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Cabinet Division of the Secretariat on Sunday.

The Cabinet Division announced the decision in a statement following the meeting. The Internal Resources Division proposed the measure.

Under the decision, the customs duty on date imports has been reduced from 25% to 5%, effective until March 10, 2027.

The government has also reduced the overall tax burden on imported oranges (Malta) and apples from 121.78% to 61% for the period between January 24 and February 23, 2027.