Bangladesh’s revenue authority is trailing far behind its collection target for the current fiscal year, even as business groups press for duty reductions ahead of the next budget.
Data from the National Board of Revenue shows it collected Tk 2,87,862 crore in the nine months to March 26 against a revised target of Tk 3,85,852 crore, leaving a shortfall of nearly Tk 98,000 crore.
Despite the gap, revenue collection grew by over 11 percent compared to the same period last fiscal year.
The issue came into focus during pre-budget consultations on Tuesday, where industry groups met NBR Chairman Abdur Rahman Khan to place their demands.
Representatives from several associations called for significant cuts in import duties, supplementary duties and VAT on raw materials used in electrical and electronics manufacturing.
They proposed reducing existing duty rates from around 10–25 percent to between 1–5 percent to support local production and reduce dependence on imports.
Industry leaders also sought incentives for investment in advanced battery technologies and tax relief for recycling initiatives, aiming to boost long-term competitiveness.
Responding to the proposals, the NBR chairman cautioned against widespread tax exemptions, saying such measures could weaken revenue collection.
He indicated that targeted adjustments may be considered but stressed the need to maintain fiscal balance as the government prepares the 2026–27 national budget.
Officials said the consultations are part of broader efforts to align tax policy with industrial growth while addressing revenue challenges.
-20260416052446.webp)
-20260416124550.webp)
-20260414132817.webp)
