Dhaka: Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed has called on critics to balance their scrutiny of the interim government’s economic measures by also recognizing the positive strides made in various economic indicators. Speaking as the chief guest at a seminar on income tax, VAT, and Customs activities in the national budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, Dr. Ahmed emphasized the importance of acknowledging progress alongside criticism.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Ahmed expressed his concern that critics often overlook the achievements made in recent months. He encouraged a shift in perspective, urging both junior economists and the media to recognize and support the positive developments, which, he believes, could lead to a more constructive economic discourse.
Dr. Ahmed acknowledged the potential for mistakes within the interim government but stressed the value of acknowledging the good work being done. He further urged the media to focus more on the positive aspects of the government’s initiatives, suggesting that seeing the glass as half-full could foster a more optimistic and supportive environment for economic growth.
Highlighting the introduction of e-return submission for the 2025-26 tax year by the National Board of Revenue (NBR), Dr. Ahmed praised the NBR’s efforts to enhance transparency and accountability. He noted that while laws and regulations are crucial, their effective implementation depends on the integrity of those enforcing them.
The seminar, presided over by NBR Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan and attended by Economic Reporters Forum President Doulot Akter Mala, served as a platform to discuss changes in income tax, VAT, and customs policies in the upcoming fiscal budget. Dr. Ahmed expressed gratitude for the relentless efforts of NBR officials in revenue collection and facilitation of trade and commerce.
In a significant move towards digitalization, the NBR has mandated online submission of income tax returns for all individual taxpayers, with exceptions for senior citizens, those physically incapable, Bangladeshi taxpayers abroad, and legal representatives of deceased taxpayers. Taxpayers facing technical challenges in online submissions may apply for paper return submissions, subject to approval by tax authorities.
The transition to online returns aims to simplify the tax payment process, allowing taxpayers to pay from home via various electronic methods. The NBR has established support teams to assist taxpayers with any issues encountered during online filing. Last year, over 1.7 million taxpayers successfully filed online returns, demonstrating a growing acceptance of digital platforms in tax management.