Salehuddin Ahmed has said taxes will be collected on all income that meets the threshold.
At a "Meet the Press" event at the Revenue Building in Agargaon on Tuesday, the finance and commerce advisor said receiving services will be difficult without paying taxes.
"Everyone needs to contribute. Participation in the development process is not just through words-it requires tax contributions," he said.
Salehuddin also highlighted the difficulties of financing the country through savings certificates and loans, calling for a greater focus on increasing income tax collection.
"The money paid by taxpayers must go directly to the state coffers," he added.
The advisor also called on citizens to fulfil their tax obligations, assuring them that their contributions would be effectively used. "The money you pay won't be wasted."
The former central bank chief said while tax collection cannot be forced, the aim is to ensure that everyone eligible contributes, which is why the online submission system has been introduced.
He said many have the ability to pay tax, but remain outside the tax net.
"Many have a TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number), but do not file returns. Therefore, we must provide services to all," he added. The finance advisor instructed the National Board of Revenue, or NBR, to ensure that tax revenues go directly to the treasury, without being diverted to middlemen or elsewhere.
"There should be no leakage. Funds should not end up with any middleman or go anywhere else."
Hinting at potential bribery or misconduct during interactions with tax officials, Salehuddin said: "We are prioritising online tax collection because taxpayers feel more comfortable when they don't have to see the face of a tax officer. You know what it means when there's face-to-face interaction..." —bdnews24.com
