Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s call for a simpler, corruption-free, and people-friendly revenue system is both timely and necessary.
Bangladesh cannot build a stronger economy while relying disproportionately on the same pool of compliant taxpayers; thus expanding the tax net, rather than repeatedly increasing the burden on existing taxpayers, must become the foundation of a sustainable revenue strategy.
For too long, taxation has often been associated with complexity, uncertainty, and, at times, harassment. Such experiences naturally discourage voluntary compliance and create distrust between citizens and the revenue administration.
If paying taxes is to become a civic responsibility rather than an unpleasant obligation, the process must be made transparent, predictable, and accessible.
This requires meaningful reform within the National Board of Revenue (NBR). Digitalization and data-driven administration can help identify eligible taxpayers, reduce opportunities for discretion and corruption, and make assessment and collection more efficient.
At the same time, technology must not become another layer of bureaucracy: Systems should be designed with ordinary taxpayers and small businesses in mind, with straightforward procedures and accessible support.
Broadening the tax base also requires addressing the large informal economy. Bringing eligible individuals and businesses into the formal system should be pursued through incentives, education, and simplified compliance, rather than relying exclusively on punitive measures.
VAT administration, too, must be streamlined so that legitimate businesses are not burdened by unnecessary complexity.
Most importantly, the government must establish a culture of fairness. Those who fulfil their obligations should be treated with respect, while deliberate tax evasion should face appropriate consequences.
Revenue collection works best when citizens believe the system is equitable and that their contributions are being used responsibly.
A people-friendly tax system is also about building trust between the state and its citizens. If the government can make taxation simpler, fairer, and more transparent, stronger revenue collection can follow naturally -- and with it, so will the greater capacity to fund Bangladesh’s development.