The National Citizens’ Committee’s member secretary, Akhtar Hossain, has strongly criticized the imposition of VAT on over a hundred products, warning that it will exacerbate inflation. He urged the immediate withdrawal of the ordinance on VAT and duty hikes.
Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, organized in response to the VAT and duty hike ordinance and the suspension of the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB)'s truck sale program, Hossain emphasized the negative impact of these measures on the economy.
During the event, it was also highlighted that repatriating money allegedly siphoned off by the Awami government could significantly strengthen the country’s economy.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the delay in finalizing a timeframe for issuing the July declaration, the speakers at the conference demanded visible action from the government.
They also criticized what they described as excessive devotion by certain political parties to the Constitution of 1972.
Hossain reiterated his concerns, stating that imposing VAT on over a hundred products would inevitably increase inflation and place a greater burden on ordinary citizens.
Addressing the interim government, he cautioned, “Do not take actions merely to satisfy IMF conditions that risk eroding public trust in the government.”
He further called for essential reforms before holding national elections, stating, “Political parties that are rushing to conduct elections are acting contrary to the people’s aspirations.”
