Bangladesh becoming debt-ridden nation: NBR chairman 

National Board of Revenue (NBR) Chairman Abdur Rahman Khan has commented that Bangladesh is becoming a debt-ridden nation due to low VAT tax collection in the country.

He said, “Bangladesh’s VAT-tax collection is lower than the rest of the world. That is why Bangladesh is becoming a debt-ridden nation. Dependence on foreign aid is increasing.” 

He also said, “There is no alternative to increasing revenue for the country’s development. And to build a Bangladesh without discrimination, everyone must pay taxes according to their ability.”

The NBR chairman was speaking at a pre-budget discussion for the 2025-26 fiscal year at the Barishal Club conference room on Thursday (March 6) afternoon. 

The discussion was organized by the National Board of Revenue and the Barishal Chamber of Commerce. 

NBR Chairman Abdur Rahman said, “The amount of tax collection in the country is very low. While developed countries like Europe collect 45 percent, USA 35 percent, and Japan 24 percent. Bangladesh collects a little more than 7 percent. This is why we are to borrow. Money is needed to meet the needs of a large population, so revenue income must be increased.”