The proposed additional customs duty on imported sugar will be withdrawn, said Finance Minister AMA Muhith yesterday, also hinting on changing the proposed minimum income tax rate for individuals.

At a post-budget press conference in the capital's Osmani Memorial Auditorium, Muhith first denied raising the duty but was informed by NBR Chairman Md Nojibur Rahman that it was a mistake that would be corrected through parliament. The duty on raw sugar is Tk 20,000 per tonne while on refined sugar Tk 4,500. The proposed minimum tax increase irrespective of place of residence is Tk 4,000.

Presently, taxpayers living in cities pay Tk 3,000, in district municipalities Tk 2,000 and in suburbs Tk 1,000.