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He noted that the outcome would depend largely on how the slabs are structured and whether further technical refinement is needed.

Rahman observed that while a wealth tax was intended to align with international standards, its rationale is already partly reflected in the existing surcharge system.

He said a surcharge differs structurally from a wealth tax, as it is applied on top of tax liabilities rather than directly on wealth.

The policy expert cautioned that any shift toward a wealth tax must account for the fact that wealth is often accumulated from already-taxed income, and should be designed to avoid discouraging investment or triggering capital flight.

At the same time, he said there is merit in moving toward a more formal and structured wealth taxation framework.

On broader reforms, he stressed the need to expand the tax base and strengthen enforcement, noting that although many taxpayers hold Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), only about a quarter actually pay taxes.

He also called for greater digitalisation, reduced human interface in tax administration, and improved governance to enhance revenue collection.

AIT on motorcycles, rickshaws

The proposed AIT on motorcycles above 110cc sparked protests outside the NBR last week, with bikers and ride-sharing workers staging demonstrations against the planned measure.

The proposal also drew widespread criticism on social media, with users arguing that motorcycles have become an essential means of daily transportation and livelihood, not merely recreational vehicles.

In response, the prime minister first directed that the proposed tax be halved, and later ordered it withdrawn entirely, said officials familiar with the matter.

Owners of motorcycles with engine capacities above 150cc will, however, still be required to obtain a TIN.

The tax authority had also planned to impose AIT on the growing fleet of battery-run auto-rickshaws.

Under that proposal, such vehicles operating in city corporation areas would have faced an annual AIT of Tk 5,000, those in municipal areas Tk 2,000, and those in union parishad areas Tk 1,000.

The government is now expected to drop that proposal as well amid concerns over public backlash, according to officials involved in the process.