The International Business Forum of Bangladesh (IBFB) held a Discussion Session on its recent research findings on “Complexities in the Income Tax Laws: A Quest for a simpler Taxation System” on Saturday, 16 January 2010 at the Hotel Agrabad, Chittagong.
Dr. Afsarul Ameen, MP, Hon’ble Minister, Ministry of Primary and Mass Education was present as the Chief Guest, while Engr. Mosharraf Hossain, Hon’ble MP and Chairman, Parliamentary Standing Committee on Civil Aviation and Tourism and Mr. Nicholas J Dean, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of the United States of America in Dhaka, Bangladesh were present as Guests of Honour, Mr. Mahmudul Islam Chowdhury, President, IBFB and former Mayor, Chittagong City Corporation, chaired the session. Prof. Swapan Kumar Bala, Dept. of Accounting and Information System, University of Dhaka, presented the findings from the study.
In his speech, Dr. Amin said that we must be cautious in thinking about the future of the country, and especially that of the next generation. To strengthen democracy in Bangladesh, he urged everyone to free themselves from the evils of corruption, and to do so, everyone must take up this responsibility. Furthermore, all citizens should use their skills, knowledge and abilities for the economic development of the country.
Engr. Mosharraf Hossain said that it is a misfortune for the nation that the government of the country has to turn to the World Bank and other donor organizations because taxes were not being paid properly by the citizens of Bangladesh. Therefore, he emphasized on removing all complexities and problems related to paying taxes.
Mr. Nicholas Dean in his speech thanked IBFB for arranging such an important Discussion Session and hoped that it will help in developing honesty, integrity and accountability among the people of the different regions of the country.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Mahmudul Islam Chowdhury said that the research conducted by IBFB was done in an unbiased manner due to the relevant importance of the topic. He also hoped that the findings from this research will help the government in determining the right policies and ensuring accountability and transparency in this sector. He also recommended forming a parliamentary caucus with the assistance of the members of parliament, to resolve these problems, along with other business related issues, especially those pertaining to Chittagong city.
