The popular lifestyle brand Arong has been issued a legal notice for charging customers extra for paper shopping bags after purchases. The notice was sent via registered post to the Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, the Director General of the Department of National Consumer Rights Protection, and Arong’s Managing Director.
The notice states that if necessary corrective measures are not taken within 15 days, a public interest writ may be filed in the High Court Division of the Supreme Court.
Violation Details: According to lawyer Abhi,
“Since 1 September 2025, Arong has been charging customers extra for shopping bags after purchases, which is against Bangladesh law. No other business in the country is doing this. For several months, customers at various Arong showrooms have had to pay extra for bags, forcing many to carry clothes by hand. Social media users have expressed widespread frustration over this.”
Abhi added,
“This practice financially and mentally harms consumers and violates business ethics. If allowed, it may encourage other brands in Bangladesh to start charging extra for bags. Arong must immediately stop charging extra for shopping bags.”
The notice also directs the Department of Consumer Rights to investigate and take legal action against responsible parties, ensuring that in the future, all customers receive free bags for their purchases.
