Most of the cosmetics items are imported into Bangladesh through duty and tax evasion, said AHM Shafiquzzaman, director general of the Directorate of National Consumers Right Protection (DNCRP) today.

"Ultimately consumers are suffering. But it is possible to run a business with integrity if anyone wants to," he said, adding that the consumer rights directorate is working to protect the rights of buyers.

Shafiquzzaman was speaking in a meeting with the representatives of cosmetics importers at the DNCRP in Dhaka.

The DNCRP held the meeting after it found irregularities through drives in several markets of Dhaka, including Gulshan and New Market.

"This is why, we have arranged," he said.

Azmol Hossain, general secretary of Bangladesh Cosmetics and Toiletries Importers Association, said some unscrupulous traders are illegally importing cosmetics from different countries in connivance with a section of customs officials.

"As a result, genuine traders are facing various challenges in running their business," Hossain said.