National Board of Revenue (NBR) Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan revealed that a taxpayer brought Tk730 crore into Bangladesh, exploiting the tax-free remittance facility for expatriates.
When asked to disclose the individual’s name, he said, “It’s better not to say the name. Once actions are taken, you’ll know.”
Speaking at a meeting with BCS tax cadres, the Economic Reporters Forum, and the media at the Revenue Building in Agargaon, he explained the misuse of tax exemptions intended for expatriate workers. The event was organised by the Bangladesh Civil Service (Taxation) Association.
“Our law ensures remittances sent through banking channels by expatriates are tax-free, encouraging formal transfers and boosting reserves. However, a taxpayer falsely claimed Tk730 crore as wage earnings to evade tax,” he stated.
Addressing rising economic inequality despite increased direct taxation, he noted, “The Gini coefficient is worsening because either we fail to see such issues, don’t understand them, or choose to ignore them. Weak enforcement of laws is a key issue.”
Of 1.13 crore TIN holders, only 40 lakh file returns, while 80 lakh do not. “Why file a tax return if those who don’t face no consequences? This disparity highlights enforcement failures,” he said.
He expressed hope that banks will soon use an API to automatically collect taxpayer deposit data and deducted taxes at source, improving compliance.
ERF President Doulot Akter Mala urged NBR to build taxpayer confidence, enhance coordination among government agencies, and publish regular tax-related updates online.
The meeting was chaired by association president Barrister Mutasim Billah Faruqui, with Secretary General Syed Mohidul Hasan delivering the welcome speech.
Bd-pratidin English/ Afia
