The Association of Mobile Telecom Operators in Bangladesh welcomed the proposed national budget for the financial year 2025-26, which was placed by the interim government on Monday.
The association on Wednesday appreciated the government’s move to reduce the minimum corporate tax for the mobile telecom sector from the existing 2 per cent to 1.5 per cent.
In a press release, they also commended the government for resolving long-standing complexities surrounding the Proof of Submission of Return requirements for BTRC and other regulatory bodies.
However, the AMTOB expressed its concerns over the growing tax burden over the past decade, including a newly proposed 10 per cent supplementary duty on OTT platforms, which it warns could hinder digital accessibility and the vision of a knowledge-based society.
They also stated that, despite submitting several key proposals, including the elimination of SIM-related taxes and a reduction in corporate tax for all operators, these proposals were not reflected in the proposed budget.
AMTOB stated that the absence of tax reductions on mobile handsets may hinder the boosting of smartphone penetration.
The press release also stated that the 5 per cent cut in withholding tax on B2B internet services is a positive step, but it won’t directly lower costs for individual users.
However, they recommended that the government address the remaining concerns to harness the country’s digital growth potential fully.