Desk Report:
Md. Ismail Zabiullah, Public Administration Advisor to the Prime Minister and a member of the BNP’s National Standing Committee, stated that the democratization of the economy will lead to an increase in the number of taxpayers. To achieve this, new citizens capable of paying taxes must be brought into the tax net, without placing an additional burden on existing taxpayers. Ensuring broader participation in the economy will expand the tax base and facilitate revenue collection for the nation’s development initiatives. He urged professionals to play a responsible role from their respective positions to ensure the sustainability of the country’s economic progress.
He made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the ‘3rd Inaugural Ceremony and MTM Night 2026’ of the Dhaka University MTM (Master of Tax Management) Alumni Association, held at a hotel in Dhaka on Saturday (October 18, 2026).
The Public Administration Advisor noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, one of the government’s primary economic objectives is to transform Bangladesh into a one-trillion-dollar economy by 2034. This goal goes beyond merely increasing the size of the economy; it represents a commitment to building an economy that is productive, investment-friendly, employment-rich, and self-reliant. Achieving this requires export diversification, increased domestic and foreign investment, industrialization, the fostering of entrepreneurship, and the development of skilled human resources. Small contributions from professionals across various sectors collectively translate into national success. He emphasized that a nation’s economic progress does not rely solely on production and investment; effective revenue collection, disciplined financial management, transparency, and accountability are also essential foundations. In this regard, professionals in the fields of taxation and financial management bear a significant responsibility.
Referring to the tax-to-GDP ratio, the Advisor pointed out that in Bangladesh, this ratio stands at approximately 6.7 percent, compared to about 12 percent in India and 20 percent in China. Furthermore, the number of taxpayers in Bangladesh remains relatively low. To ensure state services and amenities comparable to those in developed nations, it is essential to increase revenue collection while implementing effective reforms in tax administration. Taxpayers must be provided with services free from harassment, and those with the capacity to pay taxes should be encouraged to do so voluntarily.
Highlighting the Prime Minister’s economic philosophy, he noted that enhancing state capacity, ensuring administrative efficiency, and ensuring the proper utilization of public funds are key government priorities. When undertaking development projects, it is crucial to consider the expected return on investment (ROI). In the expenditure of public funds, the interests of the public and tangible outcomes must be given the highest priority.
Referring to the concept of the “democratization of the economy”—as mentioned in the BNP’s election manifesto—the Advisor for Public Administration stated that the core objective is to harness the productive potential of every citizen. It is the responsibility of professionals in the financial sector to create opportunities for developing this potential and to support entrepreneurs and productive initiatives. Addressing the MTM alumni, he urged them to demonstrate professional integrity, transparency, efficiency, and innovative thinking in their respective fields. He emphasized the need to provide the government with constructive advice on simplifying tax-related complexities, expanding digital tax systems, curbing tax evasion, and improving the quality of services provided to taxpayers. Furthermore, he encouraged the alumni to play an active role in raising public awareness about taxation. The Advisor added that the integration of artificial intelligence, data analytics, and modern information technology could render tax administration more efficient, transparent, and accountable. To this end, he stressed the importance of professional training, research, and the adoption of international best practices.
Alumni from various cohorts of the Dhaka University MTM Alumni Association were present at the event.
