Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi on Sunday emphasized widening the net of VAT and tax collection in general in keeping with the development of the country.

He said this while speaking at a seminar titled 'Role of VAT in National Development: Present and Future' held at Bangabandhu International Conference Center (BICC) on Sunday, the first day of the two-day revenue conference.

Chairman of National Board of Revenue (NBR) Abu Hena Md. Rahmatul Muneem chaired the seminar.

Addressing the officials of NBR, the commerce minister said, “We are talking about coordination in some matters from the Ministry of Commerce. It's the best. We want you to do that with our combined efforts.”

In 2026 there will be pressure on customs duty. It is expected that after graduation from LDC list, the NBR would face several challenges. The commerce minister has advised looking at the scope of VAT and income tax. Its net must be widened, Munshi said.

"Now if you go to collect income tax, you will become disliked by people. No one wants to pay tax; you have to take a positive role there too," he pointed out.

Also read: NBR extends income tax returns submission date to Dec 31

He also said, “We need a Smart Bangladesh. Ending digital and moving towards smart. To reach the goal, your actions must be smart. That's why I heard about different processes, and different types of automation coming. I am very optimistic; your work will take us forward in building Smart Bangladesh.”

The NBR is organising a two-day revenue conference on February 5 and 6 to increase public awareness and develop a revenue-friendly mindset. Simultaneously, the new NBR premises were inaugurated at Agargaon on February 5. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the revenue conference and the new building.