Mobile Network Operators express dissatisfaction at budget proposal

DHAKA, June 8 (NsNewsWire) — Mobile Network Operators or  MNOs have expressed their dissatisfaction as there has been no favorable changes for the sector in the proposed budget.

Being one of the highest contributors to the economy of the country, the industry had urged the government to reconsider some recommendations as below:
• Removal of 15% VAT on internet use. This was requested focusing on the growth of data and to materialize the vision of the Govt. of building a true digital Bangladesh
• Removal of Tk.100 tax on new and replacement SIM
• Reduction of corporate tax for MNOs, 40% for listed and 45% for non-listed companies, in
order to continue the uninterrupted growth of the mobile sector. In fact, it is unfortunate
that we are in the same club with Tobacco industry when it comes to corporate tax rates
• Removal of the minimum tax of 0.75% from the gross income applicable for the MNOs those
who do not make profit.
• Reduction of taxes on import of smart phones which is currently around 31% till the local ecosystem is ready. (Moreover, there is a proposed increment of 2% levy on import of handsets)None of these requests have been considered.
Enditem press release