Dhaka — The imposition of VAT-tax on computer imports is an obstacle to building a Digital Bangladesh, said the president of the Bangladesh Computer Association, Shahid-ul-Munir. He said: “technology products are one of the products that have been used in all kinds of activities starting from communication during the Coronation period.
From computers, laptops, webcams to smartphones are being used for office work or study.” “Domestic companies are not yet self-sufficient in the production of technology products.” He made the remarks in a statement sent to the media on Saturday (May 29). He said Bangladesh Computer Society, established in 1987, has been working from the very beginning to deliver computer and technology products to the common man and to build a technology-friendly country.
The organization is relentlessly trying to go from being a productive country to a leading importer of technology products. Bangladesh Computer Society is the successful organizer of Digital Device and Innovation Expo 2019 and 2021 with the Department of Information and Communication Technology of the Government under the slogan Made in Bangladesh. He added that technology products are not as common as the other ten products.
This includes research, planning, availability of raw materials, and coordination. We are constantly trying to figure out how to reduce import dependence in this sector. “However, the matter is not in a hurry.
So, it is a suicidal decision to impose a new VAT on computer imports until they have reached their full potential.” Regarding the fear of a 30 % tariff on computers published in the media, the BCS president said, “We always appreciate the production of domestic technology products.” BCS has been talking about domestic technology products from the very beginning.
Those who are continuing their efforts to produce technology products in the country and have achieved success are also members of BCS. We are also trying our best to attract multinational manufacturers to encourage domestic production. However, this effort is not a matter of one-day implementation. Initiatives can be taken to gradually encourage production as well as imposing taxes on imports.
Demanding the Prime Minister not to impose VAT on computers now, the BCS president said that technology traders have already been cornered by the epidemic. At the risk of their lives, they did not hesitate to provide customer service. Imposing a 30 % tariff will have a negative impact on the computer market.
As a result, besides losing customers, the condition of young traders will also be miserable. He urged the finance minister to phase out the tariffs on computers.
