Centre hikes import duty, 19 items to go costlier

The government on Wednesday announced a hike in customs duty on select items to curb "non-essential imports" and narrow the current account deficit. The move will be applicable to 19 items, including aviation turbine fuel (ATF), and consumer appliances such as television, refrigerator, air conditioner and speakers. The revision in customs duty tariffs - or taxes applicable to imports - will take effect from midnight.