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The NBR also plans to deploy modern technology, including measures to counter counterfeit tax stamps, to curb evasion by illegal tobacco manufacturers.

On small business relief, Khan pledged to operationalise long-standing but largely unused tax exemptions for SMEs -- covering turnover of up to Tk 50 lakh, and Tk 70 lakh for women entrepreneurs.

“Despite being in the law for years, not a single instance exists where anyone has benefited,” he said on the matter, adding that the NBR intends to digitise the process and require certification from bodies such as the SME Foundation for proper implementation.

Separately, in response to a question, Khan said the NBR’s broader reform agenda, particularly the proposed separation of tax policy and revenue administration, is awaiting a government decision.

He said, “We had reached an advanced stage but faced setbacks. With the new government, further deliberation is needed to make the reform practical.”

At the discussion, ERF President Doulot Akter Mala presented a 37-point proposal for the next fiscal year, including a recommendation to process individual tax refunds through mobile financial services and to raise the tax-free income threshold to Tk 5 lakh to ease pressure on low-income earners.