NBR’s revenue collection collapses, deficit hits Tk 6,577 crore in two months

Special Correspondent

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has seen a major shortfall in revenue collection in the first two months (July-August) of the current fiscal year. It has failed to meet its target, creating a deficit of Tk 6,500 crore. Even though the agitation has stopped, the organization has not been able to regain the momentum in revenue collection.

Dr. Yunus’ interim government promised reforms in all areas when it came to power. The most demanding reforms were in the financial sector. But economists believe that nothing has been visible in a year except the poor state of the economy. Rather, international organizations are worried about the future of Bangladesh.

The updated report of the NBR published today, Sunday, September 21, shows that the target revenue collection for this period was 61 thousand crore taka. But in reality, only 54 thousand 423 crore taka was collected. As a result, the deficit stood at 6 thousand 577 crore taka.

The NBR agitation in May-June also led to a large deficit in the last fiscal year. Various programs in the last two months had a negative impact on revenue collection. But the situation did not improve even at the beginning of the new fiscal year.

Some NBR officials have admitted that since the movement, there has been a fear of dismissal and transfer within the organization. This has lost the focus of the officials and led to apathy in revenue collection.

Sector wise collection

• VAT (maximum contribution) : Tk 22,437 crore
• Customs duty : 17,248 crore taka
• Income tax : 14,738 crore taka

Data shows that the highest revenue came from VAT. Yet, the NBR has fallen behind the overall target.