- Dhaka
NBR Officials Stage Nationwide Work Abstention Over Tax Reform Ordinance
Protesting officials of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) began a nationwide work abstention today, pressing a four-point demand that includes the repeal of the newly issued tax reform ordinance, which seeks to dissolve the existing structure of the revenue board.
The strike follows the rejection by the NBR Reform Unity Council—a platform representing the protesting officials—of the finance ministry’s recent pledge to amend the ordinance. Demonstrations erupted after the council deemed the government's assurances inadequate.
Since morning, NBR officials and staff from all tax zones, customs houses, and VAT commissionerates in Dhaka and across the country have been abstaining from work. Their demands include transforming the NBR into a separate, specialized agency, rather than dissolving it under the new ordinance.
Protesters were seen chanting slogans and holding placards, as law enforcement personnel maintained a presence near demonstration sites to ensure order. Officials confirmed that similar protests are being held at NBR offices nationwide.
During the strike, only export-related services and support for international passengers are being carried out at customs houses. Field offices under VAT and tax divisions have ceased regular operations.
This marks the eighth consecutive day of protest since the interim government, on May 12, issued the Revenue Policy and Revenue Management Ordinance. The ordinance proposes the formation of two distinct divisions—one for tax policy and another for revenue collection—arguing that the reform will eliminate conflicts of interest between policymaking and implementation.
However, revenue officials argue that the ordinance's provisions are discriminatory and undermine their role. The protest gained momentum again late last week after failed negotiations with the government, significantly disrupting imports, tax operations, and overall revenue collection. These disruptions have raised concerns over the NBR's ability to meet its fiscal targets for the current year.
On Thursday, the finance ministry softened its stance and announced plans to make “required amendments” to the ordinance. While the protesting employees welcomed the announcement in a statement issued late Thursday, they stated that their core demands remain unaddressed.
Write your opinion