Operators seek proper fiscal policies for tourism sector
Wednesday, 26 March 2008
FE Report
Operators of services in the travel and tourism sector urged the government to initiate proper fiscal policies to pave the way for utilising the enormous potentiality of the sector in Bangladesh.
They said the government's patronisation is needed for expansion of the tourism industry that can make a great contribution to the national economy.
The hotel, restaurant, guesthouse operators and courier service providers were speaking at a pre-budget discussion with the National Board of Revenue (NBR).
Speaking on the occasion, NBR chairman Muhammad Abdul Mazid said: 'The tourism sector could largely contribute to raising the internal revenue income.'
The government will consider the proposals placed by the stakeholders of the sector in a broad perspective, said Mazid, who is also secretary to the Internal Resources Division (IRD).
Bangladesh Hotel and Guest House Owners Association (BHGHOA) suggested reduction of duty on liquor, at least five-year tax exemption on import of hotel vehicle, simplifying rules on tax-deduction on foreign exchange and reducing interest rate on credit cards.
The association leaders also sought reduction of taxes on imported water and chocolate dust, which are now 136 per cent and 380 per cent respectively.
It also sought reduction of customs duty on import of necessary equipment for hotels.
On the other hand, Bangladesh Restaurant Owners Association (BROA) said the government should widen the gap of taxes between roadside and posh restaurants.
Travel agents said airlines are charging some hidden taxes from them, which are not being submitted to the revenue exchequer.
Operators of services in the travel and tourism sector urged the government to initiate proper fiscal policies to pave the way for utilising the enormous potentiality of the sector in Bangladesh.
They said the government's patronisation is needed for expansion of the tourism industry that can make a great contribution to the national economy.
The hotel, restaurant, guesthouse operators and courier service providers were speaking at a pre-budget discussion with the National Board of Revenue (NBR).
Speaking on the occasion, NBR chairman Muhammad Abdul Mazid said: 'The tourism sector could largely contribute to raising the internal revenue income.'
The government will consider the proposals placed by the stakeholders of the sector in a broad perspective, said Mazid, who is also secretary to the Internal Resources Division (IRD).
Bangladesh Hotel and Guest House Owners Association (BHGHOA) suggested reduction of duty on liquor, at least five-year tax exemption on import of hotel vehicle, simplifying rules on tax-deduction on foreign exchange and reducing interest rate on credit cards.
The association leaders also sought reduction of taxes on imported water and chocolate dust, which are now 136 per cent and 380 per cent respectively.
It also sought reduction of customs duty on import of necessary equipment for hotels.
On the other hand, Bangladesh Restaurant Owners Association (BROA) said the government should widen the gap of taxes between roadside and posh restaurants.
Travel agents said airlines are charging some hidden taxes from them, which are not being submitted to the revenue exchequer.