NBR to Deploy Cameras, QR Codes in Tobacco Sector to Fight Tax Evasion

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) will launch a strict monitoring drive starting with the tobacco sector to curb tax evasion, Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan announced on Saturday.

Speaking at a pre-budget dialogue in Dhaka, the NBR chief revealed plans to install advanced tracking technologies—including counting machines, digital cameras, QR codes, and modern revenue stamps—directly at the production stage.

"If we are successful in the tobacco sector, we will roll out these measures for all other products," Khan said, signaling a sweeping modernization of Bangladesh's tax administration.

Trade Ease and Relief in FY2026-27 Budget

The national budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year is scheduled to be presented in parliament on June 11. Khan noted that while the budget will inevitably introduce new avenues to boost revenue collection, it will heavily focus on easing trade, generating employment, and providing financial relief to citizens currently burdened by high commodity prices.

To minimize taxpayer harassment, the Chairman emphasized transitioning toward a “faceless” revenue administration, allowing citizens to fulfill their tax obligations entirely from home. Additionally, he expressed optimism that a streamlined, automated income tax refund system would become operational by July 1.

Addressing the Revenue Crisis

The dialogue, titled Revenue Mobilisation: Challenges and Opportunities, was organized by the Power and Participation Research Centre (PPRC) at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.

According to the PPRC, mobilizing domestic resources remains a critical hurdle for sustaining Bangladesh's growth and transitioning to an inclusive economy.

Experts at the event also highlighted pressing structural issues, including the country's persistently low tax-to-GDP ratio, the urgent need for tax policy reforms, and the impact of fiscal policy on social development.