by Hafizur Rahman
Arakan State | May 27, 2026
Rohingya residents in Arakan State say the Arakan Army and ULA authorities are collecting taxes and checkpoint fees from cattle traders ahead of the upcoming Qurbani festival, increasing financial pressure on local families and business owners.
According to local sources, cattle owners from different areas began bringing cows and buffaloes to markets on May 25 in preparation for the Islamic festival expected next week.
Residents said many people from different communities participate in the cattle trade during the Qurbani season.
Rohingya villagers alleged that taxes are being collected based on the selling price of each animal.
According to local residents, sellers are reportedly required to pay 5,000 kyats for every 100,000 kyats earned from the sale price.
“If we sell one cow for 1 million kyats, we have to pay 50,000 kyats as tax,” one Rohingya cattle seller told Rohingya Khobor. “The higher the price, the more money they take from us.”
Another resident said many traders are already struggling with transportation expenses and declining business conditions.
“People are already struggling with business and transportation costs,” the resident said. “Now we also have to pay tax when selling animals for Qurbani.”
Local sources further alleged that cattle transported from Buthidaung to Maungdaw face additional payments at Arakan Army checkpoints.
According to residents, buffalo owners are reportedly required to pay 100,000 kyats for each buffalo, while cow owners must pay 70,000 kyats per cow as a so-called license fee before being allowed to continue transportation.
“At the checkpoints, they stop the trucks and ask for money before allowing the animals to pass,” one Rohingya trader said. “Many sellers are worried because these costs reduce their profits.”
Residents said the additional taxes and transportation fees are creating heavier financial burdens on Rohingya families and cattle traders during the Qurbani season.
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