The Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB) has called for continuation of VAT exemption on tour operator services, saying that removal of such a facility, as proposed by the government in the national budget for FY 2024-25, would impeded the growth of the tourism industry.
The TOAB placed the demand at a press conference held at the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) auditorium on Tuesday, reports BSS.
TOAB President Md Rafeuzzaman, also the chairman of the FBBCI Travel, Tour and Hospitality Standing Committee, said the existing VAT exemption for tour operators is crucial for further development of the tourism industry.
He said VAT is applicable to various aspects of tourism, including renting a hotel room, purchasing transport tickets, settling meal bills at restaurants, acquiring tickets for tourist attractions and amusement parks, and other related tourism services.
So, the package price and travel cost will increase significantly, as tour operators provide services to tourists by combining all these tourism elements, he pointed out.
"As a result, the entire tourism industry, especially inbound and domestic tourism, will be severely affected," he added.
The TOAB president said that the withdrawal of the existing VAT facility may hinder the development of a thriving tourism industry in Bangladesh.
TOAB demands VAT exemption for tourism services
FE Team | Published: June 11, 2024 23:56:17
TOAB demands VAT exemption for tourism services
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