BCS president called for not imposing VAT on computers right now
Domestic companies are not yet self-sufficient in the production of technology products. At this time, the imposition of VAT-tax on computer imports will be an obstacle to building a digital Bangladesh, said the President of the Bangladesh Computer Association Shahid-ul-Munir.
Technology products are not as common as other products. This includes research, planning, availability of raw materials and coordination. We are constantly trying to figure out how to reduce import dependence in this sector. However, that should not be in a hurry. It is therefore a suicidal decision to re-impose VAT on computer imports until they have reached their full potential. If VAT-tax is suddenly added on computers during the construction phase of Digital Bangladesh; the common people will lose interest in technology products.
According to the announcement made by Prime Minister in 2008, the full implementation of Digital Bangladesh will also be hampered, the BCS president added.
Regarding the threat of 30 percent tariff on computers published in the media, the BCS president commented, "We always applaud the production of domestic technology products." BCS has been talking about domestic technology products from the very beginning. Those who are continuing their efforts to produce technology products in the country and have achieved success are also members of BCS. We are also trying our best to attract multinational manufacturers to encourage domestic production. However, this effort is not a matter of a day or two to implementation. Initiatives can be taken to encourage production gradually as well as imposing taxes on imports. This will not adversely affect the technology product market.
Technology products are now a necessity in the times of the Corona crisis in the country. The importance of technology products is immense to keep the wheel of the country's economy going. Technology products are not luxury products. The sudden imposition of higher taxes on computers is an obstacle to building a digital Bangladesh.
Demanding the Prime Minister not to impose VAT on computers now, the BCS president commented that the technology product traders have already been overwhelmed by the pandemic. They did not hesitate to provide customer services even at the risk of their lives. The imposition of a 30 percent tariff will have a negative impact on the computer market. As a result, besides losing customers, the condition of young traders will be further miserable. Therefore, I urge the Hon'ble Finance Minister to withdraw the tariffs imposed on computers in phases and for a certain period of time.
