B Mirror Report: The National Board of Revenue (National Board of Revenue) is planning to gradually move away from the long-standing tax holiday system to ensure that all businesses contribute to the national exchequer, regardless of the tax amount.

The remarks were made by NBR Chairman Md. Abdur Rahman Khan during a pre-budget meeting held at the NBR Bhaban in the capital, according to a press release.

The Chairman expressed concern that the prevailing exemption culture has become difficult to manage and is creating adverse effects on the economy. He noted that many diversified business groups often shift profits to sectors benefiting from tax exemptions, leading to revenue leakage.

“We want to gradually exit this holiday culture. Everyone must pay taxes, whether the rate is high or low,” he said, adding that businesses should be considered sustainable only if they can maintain net profits after fulfilling tax obligations.

During the meeting, representatives from various sectors raised operational challenges, particularly regarding the online VAT return system. A representative from the Bangladesh Electrical Association (BEA) pointed out that while manual submissions have been discontinued, many historical records remain unupdated in the digital system, creating difficulties in filing returns.

In response, the NBR Chairman said the online system was introduced to ensure transparency and efficiency, and taxpayers were given time to update previous manual records.

He also instructed officials to immediately identify and resolve pending issues related to stuck returns, warning that departmental action would be taken against negligence or irregularities.

The pre-budget discussion was attended by representatives from 12 organizations, including the Bangladesh Electrical Association, Bangladesh Manufacturers Association of Transformers and Switchgears, and the Bangladesh Semiconductor Industry Association. They proposed reductions in customs duties and VAT to support their respective industries.

The Chairman concluded by urging taxpayers to openly share concerns, assuring that the NBR would take necessary steps to simplify and improve tax administration.